After this last weekend where I looked like I had the mumps, Shelby convinced me that a Dr appt. was necessary to find out what was causing the swelling on the left side of my face. So I drove up to Columbia today and the Dr. was very interested to find that I had an infection of the parotid gland (a saliva gland) which I guess is fairly rare. Rare enough that all together I had 4 different people checking out the greenish saliva coming from the "sick" gland. Nurse Practitioner, Dr Zitch, and 2 students. All with their fingers in my mouth just checking it out. Ordered some strong antibiotics which he feels should clear it all up. I made the very best of the day by having a some friends ride along with me so we could do lunch (hurts to chew so I had soup and breadsticks at Olive Garden, yum!) and we shopped till we dropped.
Shelby had a very big day with a semi-truck delivery and a crane to unload it in our back yard this morning.
Kristi Thacker
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Things that make you go bblleeehhhh!!!!!!!
I got in the van, started backing out and felt something go blump...thought the kids must have left a toy behind the van so had Savana jump out to get it out of the way...she started going eeewww and hopping up and down...so I got out and 2 feet of black snake was hanging from behind the right front tire. It was obviously hurt and I figured it was dead. So... I got the barbeque tongs and pulled on it to remove it from my tire....it pulled back!!!!! bblleehh!!!!! Now what do I do...I need to get to town... so I back up the van some more, hoping to dislodge it... flop, flop, flop and it's still moving. This thing is huge! Savana climbs through the van from the drivers side and we decide that driving will get it to fall out. We drive, flop, flop, flop all the way and stop for lunch about 5 miles away. It is still hanging and still moving. A delivery man gets his nerve up and looks underneath, estimates that it is at least 5 feet long and fully wrapped under the van around the drive shaft and into the motor.... There is a mechanics shop around the corner. We order our food and I drive over...his response is "I hate snakes, you could not pay me enough money to get any snake out, can your husband do it" Oh Man! So back to finish lunch, hoping that over the 30 minutes it takes to eat, it will crawl out on its own. Lunch is done, snake is still hanging and moving. So we move on to our next errand...but after more flopping and bumping under the car, decide to stop at a friends business and see if he can help in any way. Low and behold, the visible 2 feet are no longer there but under the hood, my friend finds a huge mouse nest. Aaaahaaa moment..... snake after mouse now in motor. I still do not know if the snake is still in the motor or if it flopped out on the road...I don't have the nerve to look too much under the car...we will see if it's stinky in the morning, then I guess I will know. Things that make you go bblleehh!!!!!!
Monday, June 27, 2011
My opening post, reposted, since I saved the long Caring Bridge Journal
My New Normal
So many people have followed my journey over the last ten months on Caring Bridge. I have been carried and supported by all my wonderful friends and family. I titled this blog "My New Normal" because it is exactly how I feel right now...This crazy thyroid cancer definitely rattled my "normal" life but now I am finding the new normal as I heal and come to terms with life as it is now. I will close out the Caring Bridge site in a few weeks so be prepared to follow this blog from now on! I want to open a space on Caring Bridge for someone who really needs that wonderful process to help them through a crisis. Thanks again for everything and I will try to keep posting as new life changes and kid activities come up
My Caring Bridge Journal....just couldn't loose this!
Kristi Thacker's
Journal
Friday, August 13, 2010 9:55 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerToday I attended the thyroid cancer support group that meets at Lake Regional Hospital every 2nd Friday of the month. This came about from very strong urgings by Dr Kahn, the amazing Dr that found my cancer just 2 days ago. She actually attended this meeting and talked with me one on one. Held my hand and reviewed some of the things we had talked about on Wednesday. She obviously understands that after you hear CANCER the rest of the conversation gets a little lost for you. I have to be honest and say that some of the information I gathered at the meeting made me anxious and upset, but ultimately I was able to connect with other survivors and was provided with much needed information about how things may be for me after the surgery. One gentleman had also had the radical neck surgery that is planned for myself and he was full of good and bad stories. I just keep reminding myself that everyone handles situations differently and no surgery is the same. I can only do the best I can.
My preops, extensive scans to map the lymphnodes and meetings with surgeon and anesthesia are scheduled for 8/25/10. Tentative surgery date is 8/30/10, depending on if all the Drs that need to be present can clear their schedules to be there.
Saturday, August 14, 2010 8:12 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerI awoke this morning to a text from my best 'old friend. Mr John Howser keeps checking on me and sending me little "thinking of you messages" I want everyone to know that I really do appreciate all the support and love that is pouring my way every minute of the day. It's times like these when you realize that your past life dictates so much of your future.....not quite what I wanted to say but I think you will understand. I have amazing family, friends, coworkers and just this wonderful community where I have lived most of my life. With my wonderful Drs and the support back home, I'm sure that I will be back as the School Nurse From the Black Lagoon. If you are not sure what this is ask almost any grade school age kiddo and they will tell you it is an entertaining book about a little boy who is scared to go the the school nurse (thinks she looks and talks like a troll and her room smells funny) but ultimately finds out she is really nice and not scary at all. My voice after surgery may be just like the scary nurses for a while so my son Lee has been needling me with commentary in a gravelly voice for the last 2 days. Nothing like 15year old to see the humor in things.
I will post as soon as I hear a definite surgery date. Love Kristi
Saturday, August 14, 2010 5:18 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerI LOVE MY HUBBY SO MUCH! This great guy just sent Kim and me to the spa for massages and a pedicure. Wow do I feel fantastic after all that.
Sunday, August 15, 2010 7:38 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerI slept and slept and slept last night. First time since I was diagnosed. Massages and help from a little pill called ambien THANK YOU SHELBY for the massage. I feel renewed and ready to tackle household chores that have been neglected this past week. Also, I was not entirely convinced that I would use this site to its fullest potential but now after reading the guestbook entries, I am looking forward to having this to keep in touch and hear from everyone. Much easier to type on here than text which I am horrible at!!!!!
Monday, August 16, 2010 5:20 AM, CDT
written by Kristi Thackerwoke up at 4:00 AM, mind racing and planning for a big day at work. I always have had trouble sleeping but it is even more troublesome now. Oh well, work this week and most of next week should help to tire me out. Probably will not have too much to post until my appointment next Wednesday for scans and preop. Bye for now Kristi
Tuesday, August 17, 2010 7:52 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerWell, 2 long days of work are under the bridge and Savana is enrolled at her new school. No news to report regarding surgery. Still planning on scans and preop for 25th then surgery on 30th. Pooped out today from 13 hours at school. But staying busy is making the time go by faster.
Thursday, August 19, 2010 7:49 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerOK First week of work is done, supposed to be off tomorrow but just can't leave the mess that is still there for Monday morning so I am going back tomorrow for a few more hours to get everything squared away. Shelby keeps telling me to rest... take it easy. I figure I have all the time in the world to rest after the 30th!!! I really appreciate all the posts from friends and family. I look forward to coming home and checking it out to see who has written. Promise I will take it easy this weekend so that Shelby will be happy. Meeting with Mom and Dad for breakfast in the morning, then to work at Osage Beach, then back to Eldon for lunch with Aunt Carol, then meeting up with Lee to get him food before the football game. Sometime in there the dog, pugsley gets her haircut and grocery shopping. Sounds like a normal day off for me!!!
Saturday, August 21, 2010 10:49 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerJust got home from the races where Shelby had a great night. Won his heat race and 2nd in the feature. Excellent night and beautiful weather for watching. Mom and Dad were there also so his greatness was witnessed!!!
Sunday, August 22, 2010 10:53 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerI'm just venting this morning. Went outside to do a little weeding in the neglected gardens and could only last about 15 minutes. Got overheated really fast. Irritates me that this situation has me so wiped out. But actually the whole summer is making better sense now that I know what is going on. I had no energy this summer and found myself unable to finish many projects that I would start. That is normally not my style. I'm not looking forward to surgery but am looking forward to getting all this taken care of and getting my endurance back.
Monday, August 23, 2010 4:32 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerWoke up at 3:30. Just couldn't sleep anymore. Today, School of the Osage kids return to classes and Savana starts her new school at Osage Middle School. Big scary day for a 13 year old but she is really excited. Went through all her supplies and she is ready to go. Also spent a long time last night deciding what she would wear. Bedtime was supposed to be 10:00 but I am pretty sure she wasn't sleeping at that time. Pretty exciting stuff!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010 5:56 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerSavana's first day went very well. No tears, no real issues other than she went in one wrong room but so did another girl so she had a partner in her embarrassment. Remember at 13, something like that can ruin a day but she says she had a good day and is looking forward to tomorrow when she will have choir class. Reminds me of ME at 13. I always looked forward to music classes, be it band or choir. She sat at lunch with another student that had moved from Eldon to Osage last year along with some Osage kiddos too. Lookin good so far!
Wednesday, August 25, 2010 3:45 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerOk.. today went well. Scans showed no additional cancer. So here is the plan. They will remove all of the thyroid and try to preserve the parathyroid glands(these regulate calcium in the body and are attached to the thyroid). Then they will remove all the central neck lymphnodes on both sides of my neck (all that are in close proximity to the thyroid). Then they will take out the tumor and all the lymphnodes on the right side of my neck. Dr feels surgery will take at least 6 hours. But he assures me that he is very comfortable with this surgery plan and has no major concerns for me at this time. He decided not to take all my left side lymphnodes out right now as they did not look bad on the CT scan today. Said they may have to come out later if the radioactive iodine treatment doesn't get all the cancer cells from my system or any lymphnodes start to look questionable. I will cross that bridge at a later date. The radioactive iodine treatment will be 4 to 6 weeks after the surgery and I will be off work until I have recovered from the radiation and get my blood levels back to ok. I am relieved and tired from worrying about scan results today. Now just work the next 2 days and then Shelby has a weekend retreat planned for just me and him at a resort down by Branson. The plan is to not let me worry and fret all weekend but stay busy and relaxed as much as possible. Thanks our boys Scott and Brian and Ashley for taxi services for the younger ones. Thanks to Kim and Mom and Dad for watching the kids this weekend. And thanks to everyone for their prayers over the last few days. Love to everyone. Kristi
Friday, August 27, 2010 5:25 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerOk, Savana is doing fine in her new school. In fact she decided to run for student council president!!! I'm telling you, she is a one of a kind. Lee stays so busy with his activities that I rarely see him but he is happy. Playing football for the Mustangs, playing in the band and also involved in FFA this year. Sort of just ended up in that class but is really enjoying it so far ( I think there are cute girls) Scott is living with us now and working for Shelby. It has been a godsend to have him back at this time especially. He has become instant wheels for the younger kids many activities and I am sure he will be even more of a help over the next couple of weeks. Brian and Ashley and kids (Kaydence and Marshall) live just behind us. Brian works for Shelby also, Ashley is full time busy with the 2 grandkids. Again, they are so unbelievably helpful and always willing to make the run to Osage or Eldon to pick up or drop off or whatever needs to be done. I HAVE AN AMAZING FAMILY! LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH!!! I could go on and on down the line with my whole family. The Thacker, Blecke, Bryant, Liebler, Clark, Messersmith, and Patterson extended family can move mountains when called upon. Calling all mountain movers...gear up and get ready! I am off to a retreat with my wonderful hubby this afternoon. Really looking forward to the weekend, for sure!
Sunday, August 29, 2010 7:55 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerShelby and I are on our way home from Big Cedar Lodge. We really had a nice time. First night we just stayed in, cuddled on the couch and watched some tube. Saturday we scoped out Branson and really like the old main street side. Of course this is where Bass Pro is located so there was a dual purpose to this adventure. I got a much needed haircut (which Shelby seems to really like!). Then we went to the Dixie Stampede" Dolly Parton owns this and provides most of the music for the live horsemanship show. It was really entertaining and the food service was interesting. They serve chuckwagon style, no silverware and it kind of gets thrown on your plate but it was really very good! Kids of all ages would love this. They had chicken and pig races with children from the audience. If in Branson, I suggest this show for sure! I love my hubby so much. This weekend was one to remember and something that we need to do more often. Not sure where our next "alone" destination will be but looking forward to it! Thanks again to Mom and Dad and Kim and Shannon for keeping an eye on our youngsters. Without you this weekend would not have happened.
Monday, August 30, 2010 4:56 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerWell, I'm up early and ready for a big day. Headed for the shower, which will probably be my last until all the stitches and tubes are out, then we leave about 6:00 to get to university by 7:30 registration. Stomach is tossing and turning, even with nothing after midnight. Just rambling a little but I have faith in my Drs and know I will be awake later in the day complaining about something. So everyone keep your ears covered or better yet just ignore my ramblings. Love to everyone. Can't thank you enough for all your prayers and support. Keep loving on my kiddos while I am out of commission for a couple of days and all will be well. Love so much! Kristi
Monday, August 30, 2010 10:43 AM, CDT
UPDATE from Kim
Well - she is in the operating room now. Her entourage following her around University hospital drinking too much coffee and eating too many cinnamon rolls includes Pat, Gary, Erin, Aaron, myself and of course Shelby. We are now in a waiting room that has an update board that will tell us her status as surgery progresses. Currently it states she is in the operating room - and procedure just started. One of her anesthesiologists had thyroid cancer as a teenager and became a doctor after that life changing event....which was comforting in a sense to know that someone who had been there himself and is now cancer free - is taking care of my sister today. The reality of this is hitting me straight up this morning....and all I can say is.....thyroid cancer sucks.
I will continue to update today as we see her surgery progress.
Keep on a prayin!
Love, Kim
Monday, August 30, 2010 1:11 PM, CDT
written by Kim BryantAt 12:35 the message on the Family board changed from "surgery started and going as planned" to "your loved one is doing well".
We are counting down the hours....only 3 or 4 more to go.
Monday, August 30, 2010 4:25 PM, CDT- written by Kim BryantStill working on removing the thyroid....but word from the operating room is that she is doing fine. Official surgery started at 10:45AM - so she has been in there almost 6 hours and we took a poll here and we think that is plenty long enough! The waiting room brigade has eaten alot, slept some, worked some and Mom is threatening to begin an exercise program right here and now. If Erin were here I bet she would join in...but she and Aaron are picking up the 3 amigos from daycare so that I can stay here.
next update will be when the surgery is DONE!
Thanks for the prayers - keep 'em coming just a little longer!
Kim Monday, August 30, 2010 5:44 PM, CDT
written by Kim BryantShe is out of surgery and everything went well. The surgeon was very pleased with the surgery...it was very complex...with lots of lymph nodes involved as was suspected....but he seemed satisfied. She will be happy that she only has 2 drains...and that he feels like he got everything that he set out to get. Now we get her through the next few days....and out of here and on the road to recovery!!
Thanks to all who have been thinking of us during this very long day! Our prayers were answered!Tuesday, August 31, 2010 2:57 PM, CDT
written by Kim Bryant
Kristi is doing amazingly well. She has been up walking and even ate lunch! Definitely in some pain....has a little trouble swallowing....but not as bad as she had imagined. The doctor is very pleased with her progress....and so are we!!! (She is relieved that he "glued" her hair back instead of shaving it off! ) We are shocked at how good her incision looks and how long her neck is....she really is not swollen.
Hopefully she will feel good enough to give you an update herself tomorrow....I know she is anxious to read everyone's notes...and is so thankful for all your prayers and love!
- Wednesday, September 1, 2010 7:31 AM, CDT
- written by Kristi ThackerHi everyone,, it's Kristi finally. I am sitting up in the chair and have cleaned up. Waiting on some breakfast. Feeling much better this morning. Still feel a little like I have been hit with a Mack Truck but all in all, I am better today. Yesterday afternoon went a little crazy when my calcium and magnesium levels went too low. I got "twitchy" and my feet, hands and face felt numb. Kind of felt like I was holding onto a low voltage electric fence. Very weird feeling. But they replaced the calcium and magnesium through the IV and I started feeling more normal within a few hours. Still too low this morning so will be staying a little longer. Also the drains are still too full to pull out so I am here until everything settles down. I know everyone has done so much to help and support over the last few days. Actually, I will never know how much everyone did but I really appreciate it. Thanks, Kristi.
Thursday, September 2, 2010 7:47 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerHad a serious scare last night. I started feeling twitchy again, then my face, hands and feet went numb. Then just as quickly my whole body froze up. In other words I crashed....Really scary for everyone, Had about 10 people in my room. I was so scared and Shelby was very upset. They quickly gave me IV calcium and magnesium again. It was all very confusing and scary. But I am better now. Just having some trouble regulating my electrolytes. I am staying in the hospital until all this gets straightened out. Now they are not even talking about discharge at this time. I am again feeling a little twitchThursday, September 2, 2010 8:16 AM, CDT
written by Kristi Thackergetting some calcium again. signing off for now.
Friday, September 3, 2010 3:15 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerStarted new medicine to help "hold" the calcium in my body last night. NOT TWITCHING NOW YEAH!, NOT HURTING NOW YEAH! not sleeping now Boooo.... oh well, sleep can be made up when home in my own comfy bed. I really do feel so much better than I did yesterday. I think the possiblility of going home today could be entertained by late afternoon if I do not have dropping calcium issues again. If not Friday, for sure Saturday. My back says enough of hospital beds. I miss my crew back home. Hubby, kids, dogs, cats even the lizards. Be home soon guys. Love ya
Friday, September 3, 2010 5:34 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerDr Zitsch, surgeon, just stopped by and talked with me for a while. The pathology reports came back on all the lymphnodes that he removed and more than what he thought came back positive for cancer. So he said...I thought I took plenty around all your positive ones to be sure that I got it all but then some that I thought were clean actually came back positive for cancer ". 16 nodes were positive along with the muscle that he removed from my shoulder and under my collarbone...So his plan is to aggressively do radioactive iodine in 4 weeks. then rescan when appropriate and do another round of iodine if needed. This was not particularly a surprise for me but still sort of a bummer. He was pretty excited after surgery thinking he had really cleaned things out good. Just goes to show you even the professionals get stumped every once in a while. He assured me that the number of positive nodes is not an indicator of increase in reoccurance of cancer. Just an indicator of how aggressive they need to be with the radioactive iodine and close followup for the rest of my life to be sure we catch anything flaring up really quickly. He also told me that there is a chance I could go home tomorrow if my calcium levels behave themselves tonight but I had to throw a wrench in and tell him that Savana and Scott both are home with sore throats. Strep is running through the schools. So may end up staying with Mom and Dad until my kids are healthy again. Will cross that bridge tomorrow or the next. Calling all friends and family. I am bored and a little frustrated now. If you are looking for a destination, swing by to help me move these waiting days along. But do be careful not to bring me any germies. Dr Zitsch says strep would be very ugly for me. Love to you all Missing you all Kristi
Saturday, September 4, 2010 10:36 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerMy calcium level has stayed at 7.8 for the last 3 checks, so if the noon level stays the same or is higher, I can go home. If it is lower, I will have to stay. Dr would feel more comfortable if it was above 8 but I am taking the highest oral doses of calcium that can be taken. I totally understand his concern and will stay put in this bed as long as it takes to get leveled out. He says that sometimes it can take even a couple of weeks for the body to start regulating its own calcium again.. Looks like that is my body right now. So we wait for more labwork, but he did say I could take a real shower today...sounds fantastic bye for now Kristi
Saturday, September 4, 2010 5:33 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerI AM HOME!!! Very long ride and long wait at Walgreens. University Pharmacy computers were down and my new medicine is not kept everywhere. Nurses called around and found it at a Walgreens in Columbia...we thought for sure it would be filled and ready to go before we even left the hospital, but no. They waited to fill it until Shelby came in to get it because it wasn't covered by insurance card. Geez Oh Well.. came home to wonderful smell of cooked ham Thanks to Kim and Family. Tried the recliner..felt ok for a little while but now headed to bed. I feel and early night coming for me. one word describes it WHOOPED!
Will be fine for visitors this weekend. If I tire out, I will let you know or just close my eyes for a second. Looking forward to your visits. Love Kristi
Sunday, September 5, 2010 5:15 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerHowdy friends and family. It felt so good to get into my own bed last night. I slept without moving about 7 hours. Woke up really sore as the pain meds had worn off but it was worth the uninterrupted sleep. Today has just been ticking by. Pretty sore this morning but was able to get the routine started with a great shower. Then Chad, Karla, JP, Lucy and Truman came by and spent a few hours. So much fun to watch the little one explore and visit again with the crew. The cousins had a great time outside playing (slip in slide was a hit). Just as they packed up and left, Raena Weeks (friend from School) stopped for a short visit, then not 15 minutes after she left Jay and Wendy Polchow stopped by brightened my day. After all that, I was too tired to stay up anymore. Went back to bed and napped for an hour. Now I am back in motion again and looking forward to visit from friends that I worked with at Cap Region Home Health. Oh yeah, Mom and Dad have been here helping today also. Don't know what I would have done without Mom's help. Couldn't get my back dry without her!!
Monday, September 6, 2010 9:15 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerAgain, I slept and slept and slept. I know some great healing is taking place when I sleep. Really enjoyed the visits from friends and family yesterday. And the food is fantastic. Dad(Gary) was really excited about all the desserts. I personally loved the broccoli cheese soup. It was so good!!! Thanks for everything. You guys are amazing. Love Ya KristiMonday, September 6, 2010 8:00 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerI had such a great day that I decided I would get to Lee's home football game for a few minutes tonight. So Mom and I loaded up and drove to Eldon, parked where we could see most of the game and watched the 2nd half. Our Eldon Mustang JV team brought home a victory! Lee made some great tackles, and played both offense and defense. I really enjoy his games and was feeling left behind missing the last few due to being in the hospital. I am feeling more like myself everyday. We are still enjoying all the food that has been brought to the house. Ashley, Brian and kids were over today and had lunch with us. So nice to not have to worry about cooking anything these next few days. Now I am happily tired from a long day and my bed sounds very tempting. Good Night!
Tuesday, September 7, 2010 10:18 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerMaybe I did too much yesterday, or I have picked up a touch of the bug going around the house...I'm not sure...but I did not feel too great last night. Had a headache that I just couldn't get away from. Oh well, enough whining. I am better today and Mom is here again to help with the day to day grind of a household. Shelby is home sick today. Has the bug that the kids had over the weekend. Dr Zitsch office called and wants me to come up tomorrow for a followup visit. So, Mom will drive me up tomorrow morning and we will see what he has to say. I am sure he will be happy with the incision. It is healing perfectly. I will post an update tomorrow afternoon.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010 6:50 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerLets add insult to injury. I have the bug. Much more soreness in throat and headaches that don't respond to my pain medicine. Spent more time in the bed and have not had much get up and go today. Well, luckily the kids and Shelby got over it quickly. Mom thinks she is getting it also. We are just a sickly household this week. Sounds like its all over the neighborhood and schools. Not a serious bug but enough to shut you down a day or so. Doc will check me over tomorrow. I am sure I will be fine in a day or two.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010 2:13 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerDr appointment was uneventful. Everything is looking ok at this time. The incision is healing well. They did draw blood but the results are still not available. I am assuming that everything must be ok or they would have been calling me right back with changes in medications. I am scheduled for radioactive iodine treatment on October 7th. I also have scans and other things to do prior to that date, so the first week of October will be busy.
I told the Dr that I felt I had picked up the kids cold. Have an earache today. He saw nothing too concerning but of course told me to let him know if it gets worse. Just plugging my way through this one. Was totally tired out after this mornings activities but actually handled it all well. Rested for a while when I got back and now am up and back to my normal self again.
An interesting thing that will take place on September 24th is that I have to start the Low Iodine diet along with stopping all my thyroid medications. Iodine is in most of the processed foods on the market so essentially I will be eating only fresh foods for about 2 weeks prior to scans and the radioactive iodine. In fact, even milk has sodium(which has iodine) in it and therefore I can have only small amounts in my cooking. I love milk, I think it will be the thing I miss the most over that time period. I didn't know that egg yolks have iodine in them also. So only egg whites are acceptable. But at least it is a short time. Not a lifelong diet change. I can do anything for 2 weeks, Right?
Thursday, September 9, 2010 1:30 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerBecause I never heard from the Dr yesterday about the labs, I called and checked today. My calcium is up to 9.6. I am normal again. In fact he feels that I can cut back a little on my crazy number of pills. He lowered me by 2 tabs WoooHooo!! I have slept and slept and slept. 10 hours last night then more today in the chair. Really catching up. Had a friend drop off a medicine planner for me as I felt like I might forget a dose by accident. REALLY am taking a lot of pills each day to keep the calcium up. I have done planners for hundreds of people. Feels weird to do one for myself. Hoping everyone is having a great day. Love Kristi
Friday, September 10, 2010 6:32 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerI am back in the routine of getting kids up for school etc. But today, I am riding over with Shelby to drop off Savana. We are going to stick around and listen to her speech to run for President today. It is voting day at School Of The Osage and Savana is very pumped up! This was a very big deal for her. First time she has ever done something like this but I think she is hooked. She has really enjoyed the process and all of you who know Savana, understand that she is the type of person who can make a difference when she puts her mind to it! Wish her luck!
Friday, September 10, 2010 4:22 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerSAVANA.... did not win president but still gets to participate in student council as a member. She is happy with this. I did get to watch her speech this morning and I felt she did an amazing job. Spoke clearly and loud enough for everyone to hear. I was impressed. Mom and I just got home from the support group meeting and we are saturated with information. What a great group of people. Any question I have is immediately discussed at the table. Dr Kahn attended the meeting again this week. Also a reporter from Lake Today was there doing a piece for Thyroid Cancer Awareness month and she took a picture of Mom and me. The article will be in next weeks Wednesday paper. I am headed for a quick nap to catch up for a long day.
Saturday, September 11, 2010 6:38 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerLife is starting to roll back to normal again. Attended the home game at Eldon and watched the first half of the first win for Eldon Mustang Varsity team in years. Our boys are really showing promise on the field and it was really fun to watch them pull together. Lee plays football but is also in band so he performed the pregame show and halftime show, then dressed out for football for the second half. Storms were threatening and I was beyond tired after so much activity. Mom and I went home but Shelby kept us updated on the ultimate 42/20 win for the Mustangs. The bands performance was excellent as always. I really love watching the kids do their thing.. Today the band travels to St James for a memorial day(contest or something). Recently a school bus accident resulted in the death of a young band student in St James, MO. Mom stayed over last night to help me get Lee to town by 7:15 to catch the bus and then I am going up to Mom and Kims for the day. Good to see different walls for a little while. Had a scary thing happen last night when I came in from the game. Our outside dog, Titan, has a swollen left cheek. We think he may have been bitten by a snake, but he is alert and has eaten and drank even with the swollen area. We have decided just to watch him and see what happens. Don't know what the vet would do anyway.
Saturday, September 11, 2010 7:16 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerWhat a nice day! Spent the morning with Mom where she made a delicious breakfast... then the rest of the day with Kim, Shannon and the little kids. I love hanging with them. They are entertainment continuous. Ayden sings, dances and just entertains himself with ease. Ava started out kindof tired and cranky but after a dose of Motrin, she started to feel much better and became her sweet, loving self. I helped them do some painting(yes real painting!) while little Alec napped. When he woke up we grabbed a quick lunch and then played outside and walked back over to Grandma Pats. Yep, I walked without any trouble at all, just understandably tired from laying around so much the last few days, but really am getting back to my real self. All I can say is, what a nice day! Oh yeah, to top it all off, Erin came down from KC after lunch too. I love hanging with family. Puts me in a great mood:)
Sunday, September 12, 2010 9:09 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerBye the way, Titan the dog is doing fine! He still has a swollen jaw and neck but he is eating and drinking good. I can tell I had a big day yesterday (lots of activity) as I am more tired today. Plan to just hang and rest with the crew today. If anyone is bored and wants to drop by, please do. It makes a long day go faster!
Monday, September 13, 2010 5:48 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerI have essentially stopped using prescription pain medication. Only took one tablet yesterday and plan to use nothing but tylenol today unless it just gets out of hand. Don't like the foggy feeling with stronger meds, so am happy to be free of that. Actually, my right jaw, ear, neck and shoulder are all numb from nerve damage from the incisions and lymph node removal. It is an odd feeling. I still have muscle pain in my shoulder where they took that section out that had cancer in it, but the rest is just very tight and aches. I think it will be pretty much gone within a week. Whew!
Monday, September 13, 2010 4:14 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerAshley, Kaydence and Marshall kept me company this afternoon. The kids played so nice today and Ashley and I were able to just visit and hang together! Kaydence loves to read and was facinated with the "I Spy" book. Did an amazing job at finding the tiny pictures hidden in all the other stuff. Marshall decided that playing IN the toy box was more fun than playing with the toys. He had a ball fixing the toy box with the plastic hammer. What a hoot! Grandkids are the best:)Tuesday, September 14, 2010 6:27 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerShelby, Savana and I went to Lee's away game at Tipton last night. Lee had quite the entourage as Grandma Pat and Grandpa Gary, Kim, Ayden, Ava, and Alec also came. What a close game. They traded scoring back and forth until the last 6 seconds when Tipton threw and amazing pass and scored the winning touchdown. 33-30. Very intense game. I love a close one with lots of scoring!! Of course Kim had her camera and the evening was documented well. So now I have a picture for the website! Kind of funny how Mom's are hardly ever in the pictures. Really, thank you Sis for catching this one! Today is bloodwork check again. But results will not be available until Wednesday. I feel really good so don't anticipate anything but good news like " lets cut back on your medication". Keep your fingers crossed! Maybe I won't need my medicine planner
Wednesday, September 15, 2010 6:39 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerLast night was kind of weird....layed down in the bed, very tired and kind of nauseated with a headache... then my upper lip started to twitch!!!! I got a little worried and called for Shelby. He sat with me for a while and it finally stopped. It was not like the tingling feeling that I had at the hospital but it did get my radar up and running. I had labs drawn yesterday and the results will be available this morning. I am curious to see what my calcium is....Just tired this morning. No numbness or tingling at this time so we will see. I don't feel like there is anything wrong this morning. Maybe I was overtired? I will post when I hear what the calcium level is.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010 11:48 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerFront desk Nurse let me know that calcium level is in the normal range. Still waiting for the Dr to look at the level and decide if he wants to make any changes in medication. I will talk to him then and let him know about how I felt last night. Still have a headache today but I am beginning to wonder if its from my neck being so "out of alignment" I have gone to the chiropracter in the past to help my neck "crunchiness". I know it's too soon to go right now but my headache really could be due to this.
Thursday, September 16, 2010 3:44 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerI guess I had a little resurgence of "the bug". Yesterday and today I have dealt with headaches and fatigue plus sore throat. Just no spunk at all. So I have rested and slept. I did get good news from the Dr. Cutting back on the special Calcitriol medication even more but still taking the huge amounts of calcium(5000mg per day, which is a lot of tablets!!) Also, he was so pleased with the calcium levels that I can wait 2 weeks to get my next level checked. Kind of nice to have a week off from pokes and such. Shelby and his friend Randy drove me up to Mom and Dads for about and hour today. Just to get out of the house for a little bit while the bug man was spraying inside. It's that time of year when the spiders and crawly things like to venture inside. Mom loaned me an air popcorn maker so that I can continue to eat my favorite snack on the low iodine diet(can't use the microwave kind as it has iodized salt) and Kim loaned me her bread maker. I think I will make a loaf just for the family this weekend. Homemade bread smells so great! I have been reading up on the low iodine diet and it doesn't sound too bad. Like I said before, I will miss my milk and eggs but there are other things I can have unlimited quantities of instead. Hope everyone is having a great week and enjoying our cooler weather today! It is absolutely beautiful outside, feels like fall...
Friday, September 17, 2010 1:40 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerNEWS UPDATE: tune to 1150 AM or 97.5 FM this afternoon (Friday) at 4:30 for the Vicki Talks show which is featuring Dr. Kahn, Sandy Triplett(president of Thyroid Cancer Support Group or THYCA) and myself as a cancer survivor! Hope you can find the time to check it out! Thanks, Kristi
Saturday, September 18, 2010 11:00 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerThis cold sucks!!!!! Started sneezing yesterday now have a little cough to go along with it.... Yep sneezing postop radical neck surgery is really fun... actually it isn't hurting too bad but I definitely know that I had surgery when it happens.
Shelby is fishing for the Make a Wish fundraiser event today. Then as soon as he gets done with fishing he is headed to the Lake Ozark Raceway for the final race of the season. Then tomorrow he has another fishing tournament for the club that he is in. Whew!
Some bad news yesterday has us all reeling with shock. Shelby's Dad, JK went to the ER with pain and was found to have kidney tumor that they think is cancer. He also has either a blood clot or tumor in his bladder. Bless his heart, he was hurting so much....but they got him stabilized and he was allowed to return home for the weekend. He will go to the VA hospital on Monday or Tuesday for more tests and get a plan in place to remove the kidney and whatever else needs to be done. We have known that he wasn't feeling well pretty much all summer but you can never be prepared for something like this. This Thacker crew has a lot on their plate right now. But we will all get organized soon enough and just continue with a day at a time. Please keep our JK and all those who love him in your thoughts and prayers. Love ya all, Kristi
Saturday, September 18, 2010 9:09 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerThe fishing went well. Finished 9th out of 30 boats...the racing not so great. 4th in the heat and blew the motor in the feature. Ashley and the kids and I went for about an hour and watched the heat race, then decided the weather was threatening and the kids were showing signs that they had enough of racing. Just as we were pulling into home it started raining great big drops and the lightening was everywhere. Now its raining at the track also so I think we timed it just right. I am pooped after a long day so its off to bed for me. Night!Monday, September 20, 2010 7:48 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerOK, I will admit that today was a little too long for comfort. Ended up spending over 7 hours at the VA hospital sitting in uncomfortable straight back chairs. JK is doing better now that his pain is well controlled. My neck and shoulder are aching!!!! But I did get home just in time to watch the last 3 minutes of the JV game in which Lee caught a huge 25 yard pass and ran an additional 10 yards for one of the longest advances that Eldon had tonight. They lost the game but played well. California has a good team! I messed up when I accidently missed a step down at the football game as I was leaving. Ended up in a pile on the floor but no damage done. Just sore muscles. I am a dumb dumb....I should have just gone straight home but I just have to watch Lee play... I miss it too much if I don't go! Now I am home in my comfortable recliner and doing fine.
Thursday, September 23, 2010 6:18 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerToday is my last day of thyroid medications until after the scans and iodine. I have noticed that I do not have much energy even with the low dose of meds that I am taking now so I anticipate that I will drag even more without it.
Our last couple of days have again been a rollercoaster for the Thacker and Blecke side of the family. JK has had some difficult times, but still remains at home for now. He really doesn't want to just wait in the hospital. He loves his morning sit outside to watch the deer and sun come up.
Mom and Dad are up in Nebraska with Rhonda and Bill Blecke. Taking some time with the Aunts and Uncles and other friends that they love to visit with. They tell me they are having a wonderful time...I think they said they would be home today or tomorrow.
I didn't sleep too well last night, I guess the week is catching up with me. I will listen to all my family's suggestions and take it easy today. As far as I know, the only job I have is to keep my chair from floating away today :0)
Friday, September 24, 2010 12:51 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerI went to the chiropractor this morning. What a great feeling. I could tell my neck was crunchy and the Dr confirmed it....She is so gentle and did a great job of loosening up the muscles etc before she adjusted. Amazingly, my earache that has plagued me since August 30th is gone. All gone.... The surgeon had thought that it was due to swelling behind my ear from the incision but now I know that it was from misalignment of my neck. I go back on Monday to keep things lined up while they heal and I am looking forward to that visit for sure! The low iodine bread is baking in the bread maker, and a fresh chicken is baking in the oven. A good day all and all.
Saturday, September 25, 2010 7:30 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerIt is not taking long for me to feel the effects of being hypothyroid. Just could not keep my head up and eyes open last night so left the game early and came home to bed. Today is a very busy day with Lee's schedule. He has football practice from 8-10, then dresses up as Tom the Turkey for the festival from 1130-1230, then he marches in the parade at 2:00. In the middle of all that we are having a "Gotcha Day" picnic celebration for Kims little guy Ayden at the Rock Island park in Eldon at 12:00. Shelby cooked the brisket and pork loin all night long and the house smells unbelievable! I am bringing a pillow to lay down in the car if I need to.
We had a nice visit with 3 of JK's younger sisters. JK is the oldest so when he had Shelby, these girls were not very old, young teens at most. One from Texas, one from California state, and one from the bootheel of Missouri. They all met down in the bootheel and drove up together. It is quite an experience to sit with the Thacker Aunts. The conversations come from all directions and lots of mushy hugs, kisses and stories from way back when....I guess Shelby was a really cute baby? He sure turned out good now! The Aunts used to fight over who would get to babysit and hold him. They still jockey for the first hug and kiss. It was really quite a fun visit.
Sunday, September 26, 2010 7:02 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerYesterday was a fun filled day! Gorgeous weather spent with wonderful family and friends. I posted a picture or two of my kiddos. It's harder than you think to catch Lee marching by. They move right along! Hope you spent some time outdoors to soak up some of our last warm days of summer.
Sunday, September 26, 2010 7:20 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerSunday, September 26, 2010 7:55 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerShelby cooked dinner tonight...he really didn't realize how restrictive the low iodine diet was. But he learned a lot. He is a "southern chef" so everything is breaded and fried. I cannot use vegetable oil because of its soybean content, but canola is ok. Also, we have used self rising flour for ever, so I have the plain flour for me. I do miss my milk. That will be the first thing I grab as soon as I am back to normal eating!!!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010 9:12 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerThe JV game last night was a tough one. The Eldon boys were playing hard but the Osage boys were really good at moving that ball.
IMPORTANT EVENT DATE: CAROL FROM SPORTSMANS BAR IS PLANNING ON HAVING A BENEFIT HOG ROAST FOR JK THACKER ON OCT 3rd STARTING AROUND 12 OR 1 HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL THERE
The Sportsman is located behind and caddy corner from the Silver Saddle restaurant/bar. Its front door faces the old railroad tracks. I would bring some chairs just in case as it is a really small space inside but has some areas to set up camp outside also. JK has spent a lot of time playing pool and hanging with his buddies here. He loves the Sportsman!! I doubt that he will be able to be there very long but we will see!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010 6:24 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerI have decided that the condition of "hypothyroid" for me is similar to feeling like I have taken night time cold medication....all day long. But there is no time that it feels like it is wearing off. If you sit down, your eyes just want to drift closed! I can make myself get up, but I am sometimes very dizzy and I have found myself sort of wandering and not finishing what I started out to do. I tried to write thank you notes and decided to just wait on that one. The words just didn't want to flow right. Thank goodness for spell check on here!
Thursday, September 30, 2010 8:40 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerOK I am done driving until I can start thyroid medication again. While driving home from dropping Savana at school, I bumped into the cement curb coming across the dam and scratched up my hubcap....If I would have jumped that curve, I could have really hurt myself or somebody else. Lesson learned!!!!! So, don't be surprised if I give you a yell over the next few days for a kid pick up..Shelby is gone from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon for his big special fishing tournament. The weekend should be ok since Brian, Ashley and Scott will be available to help but these workdays might run into some glitches. I will let you know if I need a hand and thanks ahead of time for all the previous offers!!! Mom is coming Friday to take me to Columbia for labwork and we will be back in time to pick up Savana from school.
Thursday, September 30, 2010 8:57 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerSomething exciting happened for me tonight. I was able sing a few notes to baby Marshall this evening!!!! It totally shocked me when they came out of my mouth. Up until today, I could not change the tone of my voice...not at all. When people called, they often thought I was mad or upset but it was just the only tight sound I could get out of my voice. This is such a blessing as I have always found singing to be very comforting and fun! The sound I can make is very soft but I can change notes so I am looking forward to more and more improvement in my voice. I feel that the chiropractic adjustments have helped a ton. I have no earache and no headache and now I can modulate the tone of my voice. YIPPEE!!!!
Saturday, October 2, 2010 7:59 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerYesterday morning, Mom and I traveled to Columbia(1.5 hours) for a 10 minute stop for labwork at Ellis Fischel then right back home(another 1.5 hours). The disadvantage of having the best Drs in the area is that they are not exactly close! After that trip, I rested at home and Mom helped me clean the refrigerator, where someone had spilled something in the very back and it had run down to the bottom. Very congealed and required scraping to remove. GEEZ, my mom must love me a lot!!!!! Yesterday was even her birthday and she was up to scraping unknown substances from the back of my fridge!!!
Last night, Mom, Savana and I watched the grandbabies Kaydence and Marshall for a few hours while the parents took a much needed kid break to get ready for a trip to the zoo today. What great kids they are. So easy to entertain and Marshall is definitely a walker now! He is everywhere. Kaydence was enthralled with pretending to be Tinker Bell, we have a little dress up costume, she looked so sweet trying to flap her wings to fly:0)
Monday, October 4, 2010 9:48 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerAnd I thought I was tired and felt bad last week....This weekend was a real eye opener for hypothyroid symptoms.....My normal healthy heart rate runs slow 60 or so. But when I am hypothyroid, my metabolism slowed down so much that I am running in the low to mid 40s. Needless to say I feel dizzy and so sapped of energy it is often all I can do just to stay awake. I would have some energetic moments then sit down and do nothing for hours. I love you MOM for coming and helping me this weekend, between kid activities and JK's benefit, I would not have been able to manage by myself. Also, thanks so much Aunt Carol E for the fantastic lasagna, So nice to just pop that in the oven and feed the crew without having to do any prep work what so ever!!!! Thanks so much to everyone. Oh by the way, the JK benefit was a huge success and he even made it in to see some of his old buddies while we were there eating...He did not last long as we had anticipated but the day went very well! Dad traded places with Mom and is my driver for the day so we are off to the Dentist for a cleaning and check up today (requested by the radiation oncologist to be done before the Iodine treatment on Wednesday) Love Kristi
Monday, October 4, 2010 8:05 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerGood news. Dr office called today and my calcium levels and parathyroid levels are good. I get to cut back significantly on my calcium(now just 2000mg a day with 1600 of vitamin D). I also get to quit the super dooper special vitamin D, calcitriol. So now I will take only 4 tabs a day to get my correct amount of calcium and vitamin D. YEAH!
Bad news. I am super hypothyroid, way more than I have to be to be prepared for the scans and radioactive iodine this week but since I am only 2 days away from my dosing, the Dr feels I can make it. They were looking for me to reach a TSH level of 40(higher levels indicate more severe hypothyroid) Normal range for healthy active thyroid is 1 to 5. I am at a level of 80....yes 80.... this is not a typo!
Good news. Our JV football team creamed Warsaw with a 31 to 6 win tonight. Our boys were unstoppable.
Tomorrow, Shelby takes me to Columbia for small dose of radioactive iodine. Not enough to be dangerous to anyone. I then wait about 3 hours and have a total body scan. Nothing
to eat after midnight tonight so Shelby made me a delicious dinner with pork, baked potato and green beans. It tasted delicious and I am soooo full.
Wednesday is another scan in the morning then they decide what dose of radioactive iodine I receive.
Lets hope for very little amount of "iodine uptake". That would mean that I have very little thyroid cells(good or cancerous) in my body and it would mean less radioactive iodine. I would love to have a scan that is dark all over!!!! NO BRIGHT SPOTS PLEASE!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010 7:51 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerToday went really well. The day progressed on time and I was back home by 5:15. I will not get results of todays scans until tomorrow, they did a extra pass over my neck that was unexpected by the technician doing the scan. So she told me I was done and then the head guy came over and had me lay back down and do another scan of my neck area. But there was nothing painful or uncomfortable about today so now I will know for the next time that it is not a day to dread!! You just never know for sure how things are going to be with something like this and often for me the anticipation gets me worked up....Kids are fed and they got the house tidied up for me too! I am ready to turn in so good night friends. Kristi
Wednesday, October 6, 2010 9:43 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerKim posting....for Kristi
Today was a rough day for my sister. She is tired. Dog tired...and now radioactive. And unable to be around her kids...or anyone for 3 days. The radioactive idodine that Kristi got today is doing it's "due diligence" killing cancer cells- but it also means that Kris gets to hide away in her bedroom for the next three days in isolation. Tonite she sounded completely wiped out..and felt pretty darn yucky...but hopefully that will subside as the hours pass and by next week she can begin the road to recovery!
Friends and family - thank you so much for the positive notes of encouragement - I know that she (and all of us) appreciate each and every message...just knowing that people care makes all the difference in the world!
Love ya Kristi.
(and thank you so much for the gorgeous birthday bracelet!
http://www.thyca.org/
check it out!)
Thursday, October 7, 2010 3:48 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerIt's Kristi,
I am feeling much better this afternoon....No longer nauseated and the swelling around my neck has gone down significantly. I did receive the larger dose of radioactive iodine so the kids had to leave the house for 3 days. This was a surprise for us as we did not know that that might be one of the conditions for me to be able to come home. But, Shelby just pulled Grandpa JK's camper up to the house, plugged it in and the kiddos stayed right outside behind the house. Grandma Pat was in her camper back there too! It looks like we are having a camping party at the Thackers!!! I have been able to eat a little and I am drinking a lot as directed by the Drs. (helps to flush out the radiation) Will be allowed to restart thyroid medication on Wednesday.
My shoulder is also swollen where they removed the cancer....so I know the iodine is attacking like crazy...:0)
Friday, October 8, 2010 3:24 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerKind of a yucky day again today...they told me that there would be some ups and downs while the radioactive iodine works its way out of my system. I was queasy again all day with zero appetite...Mom and Shelby have been trying to keep tasty food around the house but things taste metallic and flavorless. I will admit that I finally broke down and had 1/2 cup of milk(which tasted pretty good!) and was my whole days alotment of iodine in my food but it was worth it. Completely worth it! I am now allowed to sit out in the living room as long as Shelby keeps his distance. I don't have to remain in my bedroom except for when Savana will be back to get her clothes together for her weekend away with Aunt Kim and Uncle Shannon. They are taking the kids to the St Louis Zoo and Savana is going to help them watch the little ones tonight so they can get a much needed date night. Lee is staying with friend Cliff after the game tonight so will not be back home until Saturday afternoon. Mom went home today also, so I am back to myself.
What an interesting last few days. It has been a real rollercoaster but I am seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.
So thankful for all the help and kid transporting and phone calls and emails and texts!!!!! I don't know how I can ever make it up to everyone but know that if you need me in the near future for anything, just call on me! Love you all so much... Kristi
Saturday, October 9, 2010 2:45 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerIt has been really nice to be out in the house today. I was able to complete the cleaning necessary to allow Shelby back into the bedroom area and now I am resting again in my comfortable recliner. I still have the hypothyroid symptoms of fatigue and slow heart rate but I do feel the iodine symptoms are getting better each day. Mostly what remains today is that food just has no flavor, so my appetite is poor. Am looking forward to Lee returning home this afternoon as I have not seen him since Tuesday evening. He was still sleeping when I left for the hospital on Wednesday morning early, then spent the last 2 nights with a friend. I miss him! Savana will return tomorrow afternoon. She is having a blast at the Zoo with Aunt Kim, Uncle Shannon and the Kids.
Monday, October 11, 2010 6:32 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerWell, my rollercoaster continues a little longer. Have been fighting nonstop nausea the last 2 days but finally have some medication to help get it under control and am doing better tonight. Actually able to eat some grapes and feel ok after doing so... The Dr feels that it is due to the large dose of iodine attacking the significant amount of thyroid cells left in my neck and shoulder. Which is what we are wanting to happen so just have to tough through it.
Lee has an away football game tonight that I would normally never miss but just not feeling up to the trip and sit so will have to get the play by play from him when he gets back.
Several of the fishing tournament friends of Shelby's have come down sick in the last 2 days and now Shelby came home early from work feeling very sick also. Luckily we have not spent any real significant time together so hopefully I won't get anything from him.
I have great news in that my best friend Stacy ( from college days) is coming up from St James to visit me tomorrow. Really looking forward to this. Will give me incentive to get into real clothes and get my bottom moving again.
I really am feeling much better with the nausea medication on board. I think it is just what I needed to get through this!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010 9:41 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerI do feel so much better today. The medication is helping so much that I was again able to eat breakfast without that nagging yuck feeling all the time....
I even ventured out and took the kids to school this morning. Shelby was still under the weather and Lee needed to take his enormous tuba to school today so it was do or have kids not get to school today....It all went fine, without a hitch. Obviously the thyroid medication is already helping because my eyes and head feel clearer today. Can't wait to start the long term thyroid replacement meds on Wednesday... I just know that I will be back to my more normal self in no time!
Hope everyone has a fantastic day. Mine is definitely looking up!!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 3:11 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerIT WAS A GOOD DAY
Mom stayed over again last night so that she could drive me up to University Hospital for a post scan today. We met Dad in JC as he wanted to hear what the Doc had to say today. The scan went well and Dr was very pleased...very pleased with how it looked. Both the surgeon and the nuclear medicine Dr felt that I had a great "uptake" of iodine which means that all the thyroid cells that were left after surgery are being attacked with gusto!!!! Which is also why I feel the nausea and all that but I was able to eat anything I wanted after the scan, so Dad took us to IHOP for a lunch/breakfast meal. I ordered a breakfast platter with all sorts of iodine in it :) I took several good bites but Dad was happy to finish off the rest for me! I did drink the whole big glass of milk.
Talked in length with the Dr about the fatigue and continued hypothyroid symptoms. He agreed that return to work should be put off for a couple of weeks or at least until I feel up to it. So I will remain home for a while longer but I did get the long term thyroid replacement medication today so I can only get better from here.
My next appointment is in 6 weeks for TSH and followup with a nurse practitioner. Then after 6 months they run a special blood test that will show them if any thyroid cells are remaining in my system( called a thyroglobulin). If that level has risen at all then I will get another scan to look for thyroid cells in my body. The Dr really felt like I would not be back for a scan....He was very positive today. IT WAS A GOOD DAY
Friday, October 15, 2010 2:57 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerThe last 2 days have been a little trying. Both kids have suffered with the vomiting bug. Savana started Thursday morning about 1:00 and was sick all day. Then Lee started Thursday night and again I was up all night with a miserable kiddo. So, now I think everyone in the house has had it.... and I am not used to being up all night with kids....but we have all toughed through it now and I think everyone is on the mend. Savana went to school today and Lee just went outside for a breath of fresh air. This was a violent bug that really attacks the belly hard and fast. Hope no one else, like Grandma Pat and Grandpa Gary get this yucky bug!
I am definitely feeling much better with the thyroid medication in my system.
Tomorrow is Kaydence's 3rd birthday and she tried on her birthday party outfit today. She called herself Princess Kaydence! I will post a picture tomorrow:)
Saturday, October 16, 2010 2:41 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerEveryone is feeling good today. The weather is beautiful, so the kids are outside cleaning up and mowing the yard, prepping for a bonfire tonight. Shelby is working on a "honey do" list that has been building for a long time.... and I am almost done with the laundry. Anyone who has been by the house lately knows that the bathroom door knob has an attitude so it was the first thing to be fixed on my list. Now you can get out without help!!!
Sunday, October 17, 2010 6:43 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerMarshall Lee Thacker 1st Birthday was October 12th. Pics now posted!!!!
Kaydence Jade Thacker 3rd Birthday was October 16th. Pics now posted!!!!
Busy week at Thacker household with celebrations galore!
Went for a boat ride with friends Jay and Wendi today. Absolutely beautiful day at the Lake of the Ozarks and probably one of our last warm ones as fall is here....the leaves are changing more and more every day.
Monday, October 18, 2010 11:03 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerI am going back to work tomorrow.. Tuesday..and I am excited to get back to the routine. This past weekend was busy and I was still able to stay awake and functioning without my daily nap schedule from the week before!
It really is a relief to think about work again. I love my job and coworkers. (the income helps a little too!!)
I plan to keep up this site, but probably not as many posts, just a few notes now and then to keep family and friends up to date. Also, I can continue to post pictures that are special so that those that are not on facebook can see the crew!
I have so appreciated all the support that everyone has given me the last couple of months. Writing my way through this process has been therapeutic. I can not imagine doing it any other way.Tuesday, October 19, 2010 5:21 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerWork went fine today...mostly just caught up with mail and got a handle on the meds and such in all the offices. Did very little running around today which made for an easy day. But I will admit that I was tired even with an "easy day". So, tonight is a reheat night for dinner and just relaxing in my ever famous recliner. I should put a picture of it on the site with as often as I talk about it!!! I really enjoyed seeing all my friends and coworkers today. I have missed everyone so much..
Thursday, October 21, 2010 7:25 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerI am feeling just about normal for me now. I have completed 3 days of work already this week and no worse for the wear at this time. Definitely happier when I have work to keep my mind busy! Shelby said something tonight that surprised me. He said it was nice to have me smiling again. I had not realized that I was that "blah" the last few weeks, but the long term hypothyroid had really taken its toll on my emotional state.
Savana had a blast at her first tennis lesson tonight. A young guy (tennis pro) is offering one hour lesson every thursday night from 5-6 for just $20 per month. So cheap and she is having a really good time. Also really good exercise. She is hooked!
Sunday, October 24, 2010 11:04 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerThe work week went really good and I felt rejuvenated this weekend. Even moved living room furniture around (0ne of my favorite things to do!) so now the room will handle the Christmas tree when the time comes. Also, Shelby and Scott cleaned and moved the fish tank which has not been touched in almost a year. It really needed the attention and now it is gleaming and crystal clear. Today I am sporting some sore shoulder muscles but am still so happy to have the energy to DO my life!
Monday, October 25, 2010 8:23 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerWow, 12 hour day at work did push me to my limit of endurance. It is parent/teacher conference today and tomorrow. So will have another 12 hour day to push through on Tuesday. Today, I screened about 60 kids for vision and hearing. It was a rewarding day! I really love my job, the little kids at the elementary level are so hilarious and fun to work with. Tomorrow is flu shot clinic for the staff and then I think I will just lay low and finish out the day with some paperwork catch up... not so much on my feet so that I can manage the longer hours.
We are planning the October birthdays celebration/Halloween party for Saturday evening at our house. Everyone is welcome to stop by around 5:00 PM for snacks and desserts. Costumes are optional but we are definitely dressing up. My kids still love a reason to get decked out! Our family has 5 birthdays this month. Gary, Pat, Kim, Kaydence and Marshall. Please feel free to stop by anytime that evening to help us celebrate and enjoy some good snacks. Bring your favorite fall snack to add to the spread if you like :0) See ya Saturday Kristi
Thursday, October 28, 2010 6:57 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerThis is the earliest I have been home all week. Came home to vacuumed house, dishes done and dinner made. Shelby did not work today....life is good for me! Savana had her 2nd tennis lesson tonight and she is really liking it. Said the hour went so fast that it felt like it was just 15 minutes long. Lee, Savana and I have tomorrow off from school because of the long days earlier this week. So we get to sleep in and get ready for the party on Saturday. Savana is geared up to make all her "scary snacks" which include witches fingers, moldy bones and slime cake. Come if you dare!!!! See you Saturday...
Tuesday, November 2, 2010 6:41 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerSorry it has been sooo long since I posted! Life has been whirling by quickly the last few days. The party went off without a hitch. Savanas snacks were a hit and the kids had a great time with apple bobbing and dressing up. Savana arranged a "best costume" contest. The host should not be allowed to participate, but the group thought that my "enhanced" Bride of Frankenstein neck scar was the best costume for the night! I will try to get a picture transferred over to this site sometime today. Hope everyone enjoyed this Halloween weekend celebrations and have a safe week. Love Kristi
PS My most irritating side effect from the iodine treatment is a loss of taste. I cannot taste anything but a little hint of sweet. Nothing salty or spicy. It all tastes like cardboard!!! Even water tastes funky... GEEZ!!!!!
Friday, November 5, 2010 6:13 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerWell, another week has whipped by...
Very busy with Christmas play tryouts on Monday after school, Tuesday was bowling with the league friends,
Wednesday was actually spent at home doing the always present laundry,
Thursday was a crazy night with half of a tennis lesson for Savana then the 8th grade choir concert at the exact same time as Lee had a Sports Award Banquet ( remember they go to different school districts).... Grandma Pat, Grandpa Gary, Uncle Ron and Aunt Carol made it to Savana's concert and it actually got done early enough that Savana and I could speed over to Eldon and see part of the Awards Banquet with Shelby.... We are starting to question our sanity regarding the two kids going to school in different towns. The logistics of the whole thing are mind boggling sp?
Tonight, after work, I met with a great friend and coworker of mine for drinks and snacks. We usually do this once a month and call it a "Nurses meeting or Nurses After School Detention" but haven't been able to keep our routine up with the recent illness and all. It was so nice to just relax and visit. Made me feel human and normal again!
Now looking forward to a semi quiet weekend at home. Going to play some cards with Carol and John on Sunday and enjoy some home baked oatmeal cookies.
Sunday, November 7, 2010 6:36 PM, CST
written by Kristi ThackerWhat a nice weekend. Weather was perfect!
Spent some time with Kim, Shannon, Sam and Erin and the little kis on Saturday.
Sunday morning was fun at John and Carols. Lee, Savana and I went down and played canasta and ate hot oatmeal cookies!! It's a tradition to have the cookies! This was the first time that my kids have been exposed to canasta... I think they both got a pretty good handle on how to play so now we can play partners again. Haven't been able to play partners since Grandma Joy played with us. Boy, I sure miss her.....
Does anyone else have some great memories of Grandma Joy or Grandpa Willard? Let's share some stories about these wonderful people!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010 6:20 PM, CST
written by Kristi ThackerI can taste again!!! all of a sudden, my sense of taste is coming back. Sweet came back first, and now I can taste a little salty and spicy... YIPPEE!!!! Now life is really feeling back to normal again.....YIPPEE :0)
Tuesday, November 16, 2010 9:31 PM, CST
written by Kristi ThackerTonight was another milestone. I returned to my bowling league spot and completed 3 games. A little sore afterward but bowled ok for me. Thank goodness for ibuprofen!!! Tomorrow we celebrate Daughter in Law Ashley's 20th birthday. Her birthday dinner includes lasagna and strawberry shortcake. Brother in Law Shannon shares the same birthday. We will all get together again this weekend to celebrate Thanksgiving a little early. Trying to get all the kids together is interesting with multiple jobs and other family gatherings to attend.
Sunday, November 21, 2010 5:49 PM, CST
written by Kristi ThackerThanksgiving at Kims was wonderful. Great food and so much fun hanging with the family. The weather was gorgeous, windy, but fairly warm for November. Kids spent a lot of time outside playing with all the cousins. Next Saturday, we are heading to Shelby's Dads house for a get together with that side of the family. He is getting along pretty good, just waiting for all the tests to be done that will let him know if he is a candidate for surgery or not.... This last week, I have found myself kind of pooped out. I feel like I probably need a little higher dose of thyroid medication to get all my energy back to normal. I have another followup appointment tomorrow for blood work and checkup. Nothing big, just a checkup and they will see if my thyroid levels are coming back to normal or not. Hope everyone has a fantastic Thanksgiving this week! Love ya Kristi
Saturday, November 27, 2010 6:34 PM, CST
written by Kristi ThackerWell, the 2nd Thanksgiving dinner is consumed. Again excellent food and fun with family at JK and JD's new place near Olean, MO. It was a beautiful weather day too! Warm enough the kids could go outside and throw the football around. I have a little of the winter decorations out. The rest is sitting in a tote box here in front of my feet....May wait until tomorrow to do the rest. It has been so nice to have 5 days off from school. Oh yeah.. forgot to let you know that the Dr appointment went really good. Don't have to see the surgeon again until April when they will check to see if I need another round of iodine, or additional surgery or hopefully NOTHING! I am still a little hypothyroid but getting closer to where they want me to be. So they increased the thyroid medication dose and will recheck the level again in about 6 weeks. Can't believe how quickly the days are rushing by... Hope everyone has enjoyed this wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday. Our family has so much to be thankful for that it has been extra special this year. Love Kristi
Saturday, December 11, 2010 12:02 PM, CST
written by Kristi ThackerWhew! One night done with the Christmas Extravaganza. Savana did a wonderful job as Snow White, really cute program! I will get a picture of her in her beautiful dress that was made by friend Shelly and try to get it posted tomorrow. Mom, Dad, Carol A and John and Carol E came out and watched last night. Kim and Ayden may try to get down tonight if the weather holds out and they are feeling well enough. All of Kim's crew has been down and out with coughs, fever and general yuck. I am much better since I have had the antibiotics for a few days now. Don't you love this time of year?
Shelby's Dad, JK, is having a tough week. Spent a few days in the hospital last week to get a procedure done. Surgery to remove the cancerous kidney is scheduled for Thursday, Dec 16th. He has a long road ahead of him and is pretty frustrated and uncomfortable right now. Please keep him in your thoughts.
Love always, Kristi.
Sunday, December 12, 2010 4:05 PM, CST
written by Kristi ThackerKim and Ayden ventured down for the play last night, even with the threatening snow storm. Weather was pretty "dicey" for our drive home. Hope Aunt Kim did not have too much trouble with highway 87. As always she was able to get some cute shots!
Sunday, December 12, 2010 4:13 PM, CST
written by Kristi ThackerAlso added some more pictures of the kids to the photos. Found a nice shot of JK on an old CD of pictures from the Kids Fishing Tournament several years ago. This is the best picture I have ever seen of him.
Saturday, December 18, 2010 7:12 PM, CST
written by Kristi ThackerA very busy and trying week. JK had surgery on Thursday and continues in the ICU at the VA Hospital in Columbia. It has been a whirlwind of traveling back and forth and spending time with him. They were able to remove all of the cancerous kidney and feel that the surgery went very well. He is pretty "tubed" up and not out of the woods yet, but today he sat up in the chair and had a little twinkle back in his eyes... he even joked with the nurse a couple of times! The Dr says 7-10 days in the hospital which might get him home before Christmas....time will tell.
I am feeling really good, the new medication dose is helping alot. Heading to the kitchen right now to work on some candy making that needs to get done before Thursdays Christmas celebration at our house. Looking forward to "the crew" coming over for dinner and the little gift exchange that we do every year.
Want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Blessed New Year. I can't thank everyone enough for all the support and friendship this past few months....I am so blessed!!!
Sunday, January 2, 2011 8:12 AM, CST
written by Kristi ThackerHappy New Year everyone! JK is home and recovering. Has had to go back to ER one time for dehydration but the right medication is on board now so doing much better. Our 2011 is looking bright and the weather is cold but sunny. I have enjoyed my winter break from school/work by spending time with the crew. I even went fishing with Shelby and a friend. Between the 3 of us we caught 46 keeper size crappie in about 3 hours. It was really fun! They guys talked so much about frying fish that I came straight home and made a delicious dinner with our catch!
Kim took a great picture of my crew a few weeks ago. It really does not do justice regarding the recent height explosion that has happened with the kids. Lee is now 6 foot and Savana is at least 5 foot 6 inches. I can only measure up with the grandkids now.
Everyone is still sleeping this morning and the house is soooo quiet. My favorite way to spend a Sunday morning but the cleaning looms ahead. Haven't cleaned anything since last weekend so it definitely needs it!!! Especially since we have all been home on winter break.
I have been pretty bad with posting lately so I think I will try my sisters routine of posting on Sundays. Just set a day and make it happen.
Best wishes to everyone and keep safe in 2011. Love KristiWednesday, January 12, 2011 6:16 AM, CST
written by Kristi ThackerAlright, my plan did not work. I did not post on Sunday.....I was cleaning, well moving furniture... and then we went to town to get groceries and check on Shelby's Dad and then I went fishing with Shelby and then I was cold and took a hot shower and then there was something on TV and then I was tired so I went to bed and then I went to work and so on...... No excuses here!!!!!
Everyone is fine and school has been cancelled Tuesday and Wednesday due to 4-5 inches of snow and sub zero wind chills. I bet we will have school tomorrow though. It is supposed to get into the low 20's. Those of you who live up north probably think 4-5 inches? thats nothing...but down here the narrow winding roads make driving a bus very dangerous. Stay warm today! Love KristiThursday, February 10, 2011 5:02 PM, CST
written by Kristi ThackerVery sorry that it has been so long since I wrote a note! We have had a ton of snow this last week. In total about 26 or 27 inches and very little has melted. We missed 4 days of school last week and so far 2 days this week. Hope we get back tomorrow! I took advantage of this day at home to go through some old pictures from my Nebraska days. I will post a few of them, just to bring back some old memories for some of you too! Hope everyone is staying warm and looking forward to the warmer temperatures that are forecasted for this weekend.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011 3:31 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerGood news! Good news! My cancer levels came back low... which is very good! No additional treatments needed at this time...My summer is mine to enjoy without the worry of getting over treatments or surgery. YIPEE!!!!!! :)
Wednesday, April 27, 2011 7:51 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerAnother celebration!
Mom and Dad (Pat and Gary) will be celebrating 50 years together on June 3rd this year. We are arranging a party and card celebration on June 5th at California, Mo Baptist Church. Please send cards to 28112 Hwy Y, Rocky Mount, MO 65072. Or if you are interested in getting in on the party action that day, let me know and I will be sure to get you an invitation and directions to the church.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011 8:46 AM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerCelebration for Mom and Dad went great. About 70 people attended during the open house and all went without a hitch. Had a wonderful visit with old and new friends. Memories were made! Added a couple of pictures but so many more were taken that I do not have on my computer yet. Thanks to everyone for all the cards and for coming to help us celebrate this special couple.
Sunday, June 26, 2011 9:57 PM, CDT
written by Kristi ThackerA new development....over the last few weeks, I have been suffering with a side effect from the radioactive iodine treatment. My salivary glands swell up and are painful when I eat. I have been reading up on this and it can happen after iodine treatment since the radiation tends to settle in the glands at the base of the jaw, just in front of my ear. I am going to call the Dr in the morning and see what he thinks can be done about it. The last couple of days, I have looked like I have the mumps on my left side. I was trying to wait until my August appointment but Shelby thinks it has gone on enough. So I will call in the morning.
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