Happy 2nd new Birthday

This post is in honor of Greg`s bone marrow donor Edie!

Today marks the anniversary of his transplant and it would have been Greg`s official 2nd new birthday. In the transplant world the day the new stem cells were infused is considered a new birthday. Greg was  fortunate to have made it 23 more months.

I want to send thanks to Edie! His bone marrow donor for giving all of us 23 more months with Greg! What a generous and selfless act to do for a complete stranger. We just recently got to meet Edie and some of her wonderful family. It is all kept anonymous for a year until all parties agree to make contact. The only contact that can be made are letters that go through a 3rd party.

In getting to get to know Edie, she is such a kind and wonderful person.She and her family soon became part out extended family.  Greg and I were so lucky to be able to connect on all levels with a complete stranger who help prolong another person`s life. This is why getting on the registry such as` Be the match` is so important.

Edie we all love you from our family to yours.






This Monday into Tuesday  marks the 3rd week of Greg`s passing. He was so lucky to have made it 2 1/2 years. Yes there were complications but it could have so much worse. For that I am thankful.

Live Happy! Yvonne

Gregory Dymerski Obituary: View Gregory Dymerski's Obituary by The Seattle Times

Obituary

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Gregory Dymerski

  |   Visit Guest Book

Gregory DYMERSKI November 3,1959 ~ April 24, 2012 He lost his 2½ year battle of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma with a bone marrow transplant 6 months after diagnosis. Greg is survived by wife Yvonne Dymerski, daughter Natalie Suiter and husband Sam Suiter, son Andrew Dymerski, son Mikhael Dymerski, Father John Dymerski and wife Alice, Brother Alan Dymerski and wife Mary Donahue, sister Cathy Curths and husband Les Curths. He worked for 28 yrs for the King county Sheriffs Department and will greatly missed by family and friends. Live Happy! ~ Sign Greg's on-line Guest Book at www.Legacy.com.

Published in The Seattle Times on May 6, 2012

Gregory Dymerski Obituary: View Gregory Dymerski's Obituary by The Seattle  


Timeshttp://www.tacomamausoleum.com

You can view Gregs` obituary at the Seattle Times as above or the tacoma mausoleum.Signing, sharing stories or pictures are welcomed at either website.

A final blog will come soon! I wanted to let everyone know about the obituaries.

Live Happy and healthy !!! Yvonne

a celebration of life services

 The date for the celebration of life service for Greg is Sat. April 28, 2012

 It will be at the

Washington State Criminal Justice Training Center.
The address 19010 1st Ave. So, Burien Wa 98148.

The time is at 1:30 pm

It is open to all and the reception will follow at the same facility.The directions are below or google from your address to get more accurate info.


The directions  going north:

	I-5 N
	Take exit 149B to merge onto WA-516 W/S Kent Des Moines Rd toward Des Moines
	Continue straight onto Marine View Dr S
	Slight left onto S 216th St
	. Continue onto WA-509 N/1st Ave S Destination will be on the right

Direction going south from seattle  Continue onto WA-509 S Take the S 160th St exit Turn right onto S 160th St  Turn left onto 1st Ave S Destination will be on the left I hope to see you at the services. Yvonne

Prayers Needed AND ANSWERED IN ONE DAY!

Tres amigos y 

Greg here, one hand typing as I continue to struggle with balance.   I DID NOT HAVE THE BIOPSY/SURGERY AFTER ALL WHEN LAB WORKERS GOT A 
"HIT" CALLED RSV VIRUS JUST PRIOR TO ME GOING TO SLEEPYVILLE.   NOW WE WILL TRY SOME NEW ANTI-VIRALS FIRST AND SEE THEY WORK. 
ARRGGHHH!


this is Yvonne posting for Greg. He needed a little of help due to fevers, etc. 


I wanted to update everybody. Saturday at 5 am we go to ER at ST. Josephs Hospital with difficulty breathing and fevers of 101.5 . He needed to be put on oxygen because his levels were low along with tachycardia. As we were waiting for a room on the 10th floor, all of these symptoms began to improve. He had several tests performed while in ER. The thought was possible pneumonia.


The fever broke for 36 hours then starting spiking again Sunday afternoon along with increase weakness, low oxygen and tachycardia. In the morning he was able to walk around the hospital, but by the afternoon he had difficulty standing or sitting on the edge of the bed.


He still runs variable temps going on day 5. This am it was 103.1, the highest yet. He is still on oxygen, since his levels will drop without it . We are waiting for test result for another day, before it will be decided if a lung biopsy will be performed. 


The good news he was able to do 5 laps around the 10th floor with oxygen and IV`s. He continues to be a fighter. 


The Pulmonologist just reported his CT scan shows the lungs are getting worse and appears to be an autoimmune disorder. A lung biopsy in the next day or two and a high dose of steroids IV form. The doctor thought maybe graft vs host disease of the lungs. Wow!! As Greg says watch out world!!! ( Due to rage of steroids ha, ha!!! Help me) The IV steroids will even go higher once properly diagnosed for sure.


 ( Help, help!!!) Once Greg is out of the woods I think work will be good place for me.  As the title of this posting says prayers are needed this can be corrected and  figured out quickly. 

Feeling That Way/Anytime

Our "Team" in Seattle (Greg Edie Yvonne Kevin)

I opened my eyes to a new kind of way...

What an opening for a great couple of songs.  I was never much of a Journey guy, just heard these songs listening to a great classic rock station in Kauai;   "Shaka 103" for some reason I couldn't get them out of my mind.   I will get back to Journey later...

I have to apologize for being lazy and not posting for awhile.   I have a lot to say but decided to go computer free for 9 days right after we had a visit from my life saver/Donor Edie and her family.

We surprised Edie, her husband Kevin; sisters Christine and Kathy, and Arlene at SeaTac airport; it all started Friday night March 23... We were supposed to have a film maker there to document the meeting for a promotional film he is making for the LLS, but the days got mixed up so we met him at the climb.   We still talked and took some photos before we went home, the ECC went to a hotel in Seattle.   I couldn't sleep well that night, and eventually got so itchy and painful that we went to the Enumclaw E.R. for help.  The visit didn't help much, so off to Tacoma for a C.T. scan Saturday morning.   It made us delayed in meeting up with the ECC, but we finally made it downtown after bad traffic tried to stop us.   We found the ECC enjoying lunch at a nice spot at the Pike Place Market.   They were enjoying Seattle after seeing Elvis at the Monorail anniversary.   We did some more Market exploration and ended up at the Pike Brewery.   What a great group of people.   Everyone had a good time.  

Big Climb team

We next met up at the Columbia Building for the Big Climb on Sunday.   I couldn't climb due to weakness, but was able to shepherd the ECC and myself up to the 76th floor to greet our team, and coach Yvonne.  Our racers were fast, I think they beat us to the top and we took the elevators!   It was a sunny day and views were beautiful.   We eventually went down and many of us went to lunch at Fado (Irish place).   Our team did a great job in fund raising, close to $10,000 raised for the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society.  

The visit from the ECC was quick, they had to catch a plane early Monday morning back to Boston.   

Almost in the air, Natalie, Sam Y and G

We made last minute plans ourselves and thanks to air miles we went to Kauai Monday morning.   Cam and Kristen offered us a place to stay with them in Poipu, it was a great trip to get away and see some sun- Thank you C and K!   After four days in Kauai we switched islands to Oahu to see our Daughter and Son-in-law Sam.   They have a nice home in Hawaii Kai - about 15 miles east of Waikiki.   We were able to do a sunset cruise off the north shore, and a glider ride also on the north shore at Dillingham field.   We were also able to swim, snorkel, and play at Makapuu and the north shore beaches.   There were still some big waves, and the Shrimp shack on the trip was yummy!

 

Arlene Murphy (cousin and ECC)

Back to Journey-   The band started in the early 1970's San Francisco after Gregg Rolie and Neil Schon came from the Santana band.  Many iterations later I think they are still touring and making a lot of money.   Steve Perry joined the group in 1977 he stayed around while Journey made most of their hits.   Perry's vocals took the group to a higher high, no pun intended.   His Tenor voice can be heard on such hits as "Send her my love", "Faithfully," "Open arms", "Don't Stop Believin", and many more.  

I am still looking for a new kind of way, I'd take a clinical trial or other treatment option while I continue in my relapse.   I will be in Chemo M-W-F next week in Tacoma with my old friend Nelarabine.   I am hoping it can stop the lymphoma lesions/tumors that seem to be growing more and multiplying.   So far the cancer action is limited to the lesions and not in my blood or bone marrow.   If the chemo works it can buy me some more time to enjoy life, look for options, etc.  Our tan is already fading, Easter is almost here, Yvonne went back to work part time at another clinic, and it has been dry since we got home.   Good Friday to all, Live Happy!

Cinnamon Girl

April 2011 hike with Sadie and Andrew

I had a dream the other night, Neil Young and "Cinnamon Girl" were part of the dream.   As usual, there are a few degrees of separation from Neil Young, and in this case The Beatles and Paul McCartney.   Neil's iconic 1970 rock classic is rumored to be about a few women, the most probable real life muse was a woman who is Paul McCartney's current guitarist (Brian Ray)'s sister,  Jean Ray.   Jean infatuated a young Neil in the way she played finger cymbals and sang in a folk duo in 1960's California.   Neil might have taken some of the lyrics from other women he had encountered,  in the end he wrote a song about love at first sight.   Here is the simple but profound opening line: "I want to live with a Cinnamon Girl   I could be happy the rest of my life with a Cinnamon Girl."   Neil is a dreamer, and he often expressed dreams in his lyrics.   The attached video is of 53 year old Susanna Hoffs (80's group The Bangles) and Matthew Sweet covering Cinnamon Girl.

My dream was partly about my wife Yvonne and all she has done in for me since we were married in 1982.   To add to the routine,  since my diagnosis in October 2009 Yvonne has taken over all of the difficult household duties. She does that while also adding the role of care giver, continuing to work part-time as a Physical Therapist Assistant, gardener, dog sitter, athlete, confidant and friend.   As an example, we spent all day at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center yesterday, Yvonne kept me on schedule, she asked the right questions when I forgot something, and shared the good with the bad with me.   We were hopeful that Dr. Flowers and the experts at the long term follow up Unit would offer us a good alternative to my current no-mans-land feeling.   That didn't happen, I was probably a little depressed as one of the tumors continues to grow and change shape on my stomach and the best we got was "Don't give up."   "While you fight maybe medical science will find something for you."   If I didn't feel pretty good I would probably be a head case.   I needed someone- Yvonne was there.   I know I take a lot for granted including Yvonne- thank God I still have time to make a change. 

I will go into more detail about some more good things Yvonne and I are up to soon, as we look forward to the weekend of the Big Climb and visiting with my donor Edie, ECC and cousin Arlene.   

My dream continued... about 31 years ago I saw my Cinnamon Girl sitting at a table waiting for someone to ask her to dance.  She said yes, and about a year later I married her. The dream meandered forward to the future, we were at a wedding or a party and re-lived a similar situation but we were a bit older maybe in our 60's.   I have hope, mainly because I know Yvonne will say yes if I ask her to dance. 

A Simple Song

Charlie Lustman/Greg

Hello and Happy almost St. Patrick's Day!   Yvonne and I would be looking forward to running in what used to be our annual tune up to the Spring and Summer season at the Seattle St. Patty's Day Dash (tomorrow) but this year like last, a few things got in the way.    We had an interesting week dominated by attending the all day Pierce County Cancer Survivorship Conference at the beautiful University of Puget Sound on Tuesday.   We learned a little about a lot and were able to take in the keynote speaker Charlie Lustman at the end.   Charlie is a cancer survivor who now sings and entertains with a super positive air.   Charlie now lives on the north shore of Maui, yes I am jealous.   His speech was more of a concert performing most of his album with titles like "Chemo Brain" and "Made Me Nuclear."   Please check out the attached video for more.    The dose of positive came at a good time as I am still plugging along with less than a plan.   We have been reaching out to the Fred Hutch, and finally made an appointment to see the long term follow up folks next week.   I am hopeful that they can work with Dr. Senecal to develop a plan so I can move forward...   We have also been busy preparing for the Big Climb, and a visit from my bone marrow donor Edie and some of her family.    My cousin Arlene is also coming out for the visit, we asked them to bring Boston weather with them.   Our climb team, a visit from Edie, and the interesting life saving case might be part of a documentary film being produced by a local cinematographer, more on that later.    Stay safe today and tomorrow, that green beer or drink could be dangerous!  

Shilo

Humor me please! Bellevue 197Something

Neil Diamond began his career writing songs in 1962.   He went to NYU having grown up in Brooklyn with his Polish and Russian Jewish parents whose families immigrated here.   Before becoming a songwriter Neil was an accomplished Fencing athlete, even a member of the 1960 NCAA Men's champions.   He didn't find success in is early songwriting career.   He kept at it-   eventually finding huge success when Jay And The Americans recorded "Sunday and Me."  The Monkees recorded "I'm A Believer" and "A little Bit Me, A little Bit You" in 1966 and Neil hit the big time.   He continued writing and several big name groups covered his songs.   Neil wrote his first introspective song; "Shilo" in 1967.   The song was a turning point for Neil  which caused him to change recording contracts since his management wanted more "I'm A Believer" types of songs.    Neil persisted and eventually prevailed as Sweet Caroline, Cherry, Cherry, and countless other hits came out after his freedom was gained.   Amy MacDonald, a Scottish singer-songwriter does an interesting interpretation on Neil's classic "Shilo."   The story of Neil Diamond is one of persistence, self realization, and stick-to-it tenacity.   We could all learn from his success.    By the way, he was not contracted by The Monkees, their management found "I'm A Believer" and the group covered the song just as others have always covered songwriters compositions.    Since we lost Davy Jones this past week, I'd also like to include that the degree of separation issue continues...   The Beatles liked The Monkees, especially the humor and the fact that the Monkees learned to play the instruments so many thought that they couldn't.   The lads hosted the Monkees when the Monkees first toured the U.K.   Individual members of both groups became friends and had several contacts during the late 60's and into recent times.   I love The Monkees,  the members of the Monkees did in fact have some musical talent.   Of course Hollywood had to screw with the lineup-   Davy Jones could play drums (Micky played rums on the show) Peter Tork could play guitar (bass on the show) and Mike Nesmith was actually better on Bass (Guitar on the show.)  Micky was the singer for most of the hits, his musical talent had to be developed bu the producers like to show Davy Jones singing with tambourine.   They did play live, at times with a backing band.   Here's to Davy, at 67 he was taken way too early.

Without getting too technical, I do have good news on the cancer front.   I received my results on the PET scan this past Thursday.   I have three distinct lesions growing in my mid section (one I can see and feel) but no other cancer growth.   I feared that there would be much more new growth since I have been out of treatment for over a month and am still technically in relapse.   As an aside, my level of disease is so low that if I were to be able to get a spot in the clinical trials from Houston I would not qualify because of my close proximity to remission.   What a roller coaster.   I am also of course feeling better and although knocking on wood whenever possible- I even started swimming again this past week.   Of course with every up we seem to have I find a way to find a down.   Last night- falling down the stairs and ripping open skin on my right arm.   Now I will have to heal that for a few weeks before I can swim again...  I am not quite done with the good news!   My bone marrow donor is coming to Seattle during the weekend of the Big Climb.   Edie, her husband Kevin, sister Christine, and probably my Cousin Arlene will be here in two weeks.   We were planning a trip to Beantown after the Climb- so I called Edie yesterday, asking about good dates.   I blew the surprise and she had to let me know they had already bought airfare for Seattle.   I can't wait to finally meet my savior and some of her family.   We won't have a lot of time, but Saturday and hopefully most of Sunday we will show some Seattle sights and Northwest hospitality to the ECC!    I am having people tell me I look good, I feel good, heck maybe I need to go back to work?   (That would take a lot of pushing.)   

Ridin' The Storm Out

I am borrowing the REO Speedwagon song and album title for today as it conveys exactly what is going on.   REO began in 1971 with their self titled first album.   The group changed to lead vocalist Kevin Cronin on their next album, R.E.O./T.W.O.    They had a few hard rock hits from the album, and then Cronin left the band for four plus years (REO lost the spark.)   When Cronin returned in 1976 REO took off again, in 1977 they released the live album;  Live: You Get What You Play For.

The live album catapulted REO to arena rock star status.   1977- What a year!   I graduated from High School, bought my first really cool car (1968 Chevy Malibu 327 V-8 4-speed.) and continued my educational journey at Portland State University...   I was fortunate enough to see REO with Ted Nugent at the Portland Memorial Coliseum...  The Portland Trailblazers won the NBA championship after losing the first two games then winning four in a row...  The Seattle Mariners played so-so in their first season in the American League... Leaded gas cost about .65 cents a gallon...   The USA gave the Panama Canal back to Panama...   The Apple II computer came out...   Star Wars...   The Trans-Alaska Pipeline finally pumped the first oil to port...   Seattle Slew becomes the tenth Triple Crown winner in Horse-racing...   I don't know which was sadder, Elvis dying or Jimmy Carter being elected President...    I could go on and on about one of my favorite years.   REO Speedwagon wasn't at the top of any list, but they changed the way I looked at music for at least a few years.   

Yvonne and I are  still in awe at the generosity and support we received prior to traveling to Houston for what we thought would be a long trip.   We were disappointed but I was able to get some tests done that I finally have the final results of.   All good news.   My bone marrow was normal, probably the first time since my initial diagnosis when that has occurred.   It doesn't mean I am cancer free just yet, I will discover that with a PET scan tomorrow.   I am pretty sure I have some lymphoma lesions including lumps in my stomach area.   Still, coupled with feeling better, I even went swimming for the first time in months today.   I might be able to climb that Columbia Building after all!   Dad is doing much better after his bypass, we are both trending up.   Ridin' The Storm Out is about hunkering down while a big storm blows by in the mountains.   To me there are similarities to our Northwest weather, but I am also riding out this darn cancer as I continue to look for a cure.   Live Happy, keep your head down if you must- don't be hesitant to get some support.   If you are under 45 years old you might think the band wears wigs, they do not.

I'll follow the Sun

Sadie saying "No, I won't retrieve."

I might be stretching the truth with today's post title, as you can see it's not sunny in Western Washington in late February.   I talked to Dad last night, he sounded better and told me he walked quite a bit during the day.    He was released today and is recovering at the trailer in San Diego.   We wish him and Alice the best with the recovery period.      
During the past two-plus weeks we thought that we would be following the sun just as Paul and the Beatles recorded in 1964.   Paul actually wrote the song in 1959 and the group waited until their fourth U.K. album Beatles for Sale to release it.   It was placed on Beatles '65 in the U.S.A.  A love song... sort of.   Paul was relating that he would follow the sun if his relationship didn't work out.   The Beatles wrote more than their share of selfish male dominated songs in the early days, the times they sure have changed since the early 60's.   

Snow Angel to calm a fever

Our recent journey was looking to follow a similar route (Sun), first we traveled to what was supposed to be sunny Colorado, warm Houston, interrupted by always nice San Diego- oops back to Seattle.   Colorado was snowy and cloudy during our entire visit, Houston was down pouring rain and unseasonably cool, then when Dad and his heart brought us to San Diego we finally saw the sun.   It was very nice our entire week in SD.   Of course I was not in fine form during any of the journey.   Most recently I developed either a bad cold or worse- I am not really sure but the pains and stuffiness continue.   In Colorado and Houston I was having problems walking and with fatigue.  My fatigue levels have improved but my left leg/hip pains have continued and are worse.   I didn't really explain what occurred to put a crimp in our plans either.   While still in Houston waiting for the next tests Dad had a heart attack.   We made plans with the Doctor and her staff in Houston to accommodate a side trip to San Diego and thought everything was moving forward.   During our visit with the Doctor she said something that made us both think.   She said something like "I need to check and see if they are still accepting people in the study."   Yvonne and I exchanged a glance but did kept quiet as we continued the discussion.  I thought she meant that one of the two studies might be problematic, but not a sure no-go.    After more discussions about whether I had cancer or not??? and how the upcoming testing would determine or prove that (again ???) we left the meeting after 6PM at the end of a very long day.   I eventually got my bearings when we got to San Diego and e mailed the doctor with a yes-no question.   Her reply was a little more clear, but still not yes or no.   I followed up with another message as making travel plans and the logistics were very difficult for us.  She finally told me that there were no openings in either study and suggested I wait for three weeks (if someone leaves I could enter)  or perhaps I could return home to receive more standard treatments while I wait.   My reply was easy- I returned home.   I can't tell you how disappointed we both were, many people contributed funds to help us go to Houston to enter what I was told were one of two studies.  To have the dream crushed made me feel a failure on top of having worsening health problems.   Luckily we were not maxed out financially, just emotionally.   
There is some good news.   I received my bone marrow biopsy results from Houston, showing around 1% blasts- a number that normal people have.   Little or no cancer in the marrow means that my relapse is lymphoma (if anything) based instead of leukemic.   I still have some lymphoma lesions in my stomach area and I suspect my left leg and hip...   My way of staying true to my supporters is to commit to further research to find a clinical trial or alternative treatments.  So far I have found potential trials at Stanford U. and maybe one in Seattle at the Hutch.   I will expand my search to include the Caribbean and Hawaii- but will not hold my breath on those!    We see my ARNP tomorrow and we are hopeful that we will come up with a plan for the near term.   Please enjoy the video, it has real good early Beatles content.  Live Happy in the snow or in the sun. 

 

Update #2

Hey hey hey-

Some good news first.   Dad (John Dymerski) was scheduled to have his bypass surgery Monday, it was delayed until Tuesday, then delayed until Tuesday late afternoon/evening.   We were here with Alice when the lead Dr. came out at 8PM and told us that Dad was out of surgery, had a quadruple bypass, and an additional anuerysm fixed/removed.   I wasn't able to visit with him until today.   We just visited Dad this being Thursday morning and he was finishing breakfast and looking pretty good.   He is only hooked up to 8 drips, Alice said he was hooked up to 12 yeaterday.  They want him out of CCU as ASAP, he will eventually go up to the 6th floor to recover some more prior to being released.   He still doesn't have a phone, when he is on the 6th floor he should and I will list it in a comment.

I was scheduled to be back in Houston for additional tests today, in the last few days I have been playing email tag with the head Doctor in Houston.   She finally told me Tuesday that there wasn't a spot for me in either trial, she went on to say there might be an opening if one of the current participants leaves but she didn't think that would happen for three weeks at least.   We were floored and quite surprised as I was told a long time ago that there was room in at least one study.   Instead of traveling back to Houston, we are now going back to Enumclaw Saturday, and re-evaluating the Houston MDA studies, other studies and treatments, etc.   I developed a nasty cold in the past few days too, it seems to be getting better today.   Doctor Senecal in Tacoma will probably get me going on a chemo protocol again since I have  obvious signs of cancer disease rearing there ugly heads. UGGHHH!

More later, please know that all of the support for my Dad and I has been very helpful.  I hope to give double good news soon!  

Greg

Update

Andrew and Zoey

I am going in a different direction with today's post.   We have been spending time traveling, we had a great visit in Steamboat Springs, CO with our son Andrew, his girlfriend Ashley, and his roommates Rohan and Rahoul.   As we were at airports my father had a heart attack we discovered yesterday after we settled into the hotel in Houston.  I know he is in the ICU in San Diego, we've talked a couple of times as we try to figure out how we might manage seeing him and completing the Houston M D Anderson treatment, etc.   To add to our troubles, I hit my head on a metal support beam this morning on our way from the Hotel to M D Anderson.  

Beautiful fountain at MDA

It bled pretty good, Yvonne took the keys and I held a paper towel on the way to MDA, thank God it turned out to be just a bruise and cut that looks bad but is probably not a major concern.   I am waiting for more tests including a bone marrow biopsy and will know what the Doctor wants to do this afternoon... what a day!  I will update my blog later as time allows. This medical center is like a big city, it is unbelievable.   The people providing care are all very kind, so far so good.   
... Hey there,  02-17-2012 now...  We didn't get back to our hotel until 7:30 local time, then had to use our time to book a side trip to San Diego to see Dad.   We are traveling Saturday-Wednesday next week.  That of course means I won't be at MDA until next Thursday.   One day (2-16) at MDA was long, I discovered that I have to undergo additional testing (a lot) next week to see if I qualify for one of two clinical trials. Both trials are basically for the same drug, a notch inhibitor one a pill, the other is via I.V.   It is also possible that I have improved or the last chemo worked, the additional testing will determine a lot but I won't know all of the answers for probably two more weeks.   I do know that if I qualify we will need to be in Houston for four to six weeks.   A little overwhelming, but doable.   We are trying to take care of future potential logistics today, a lot to do.   Have a great weekend, Live Happy!

"Thank You (Girl)"

I couldn't remember a Beatles song that was appropriate or included the words Thank You.   Of course when I consulted my books I was shamed into remembering "Thank You Girl."   A very early Beatles hit, B side of a 1963 "From Me To You" single.   John and Paul wrote the tune to thank their many female fans (have you seen early Beatles video and heard the screaming?)    The attached video/audio is a great opportunity to hear the early lads in the studio with take 1 of the recording.   You can hear the authentic recording style before computers,  and studio trickery.   The first line sums up why I chose this song today.   My angle?    I have been the recipient of two unbelievable gifts this past week +.   Dave hosted a dinner last night for Taco Tuesday as well.    I know a few of the contributors, but most are anonymous and very generous.   As we fly out of SeaTac tomorrow, we will not have any worries about finances for the travel, lodging, out of pocket medical expenses, etc.   Yvonne and I are very fortunate to have the support of so many, we can't come close to thanking you properly.   Please know that as I fight hard and return with a better prognosis, we will visit with as many of you as possible and thank you in person.   We are visiting our son Andrew on the way to Houston in tropical Steamboat Springs CO, (26 degrees yesterday) then arrive in Houston on the 15th.   I am very confident, since attitude is a big part of the battle- I will be on top of my game.   God Bless everyone, keep the faith, and Live Happy!

More later... 

"Within You Without You"

My heart goes out to all of the family and friends of Stan Chapin, a great man who passed way too early...

Today's post plays an often skipped Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band tune, probably one of the most underrated Beatles songs of all time.   George Harrison wrote and is the only Beatle to perform on the record.   A bevy of Indian and other musicians help with Sitar, Tambura, and other less than normal rock and roll instruments.   Within You Without You was actually written to be a much longer composition, the five minute condensed album version still manages to get a very good message across to the masses.   The opening lines tell us the central message, 

"We were talking-About the space between us all-And the people who hide themselves
Behind a wall of illusion-Never glimpse the truth-Then it's far too late-When they pass away"

Sadie and I relaxing

George was trying to lay down some basic truths including opening up, love, and what happens when the powerful lose their souls, so intuitive and relative to today! 

I won't rehash the rest of the lyrics other than to say they can apply to all religions, political views, and all good people who will listen, keeping their minds open to goodness.   In the past week plus I have had contact with many people via phone or in person who exemplify the good that George was singing about, thank you for the kindness and motivation to keep fighting.  
I have been told that I am now a recurrent patient, still not able to achieve complete remission and in the "palliative care" area of my journey with Acute Lymph. Leukemia.   The doctors use that term as a prelude to hospice or end of life care.   Being a little stubborn, I said thanks but no thanks, let me see what I can find out there that might still get me to remission.  Thanks to Mike Cowan from Steamboat Springs Colorado, and my son Andrew I found a potential clinical trial in Houston, TX that might take me in.   After some administrative wrangling I was able to confirm at least an appt. and further testing for the trial February 16th.   After 3-5 days of testing I will then know if I can be guinea pig # X for a trial of a new medicine that inhibits tumor growth by intervening in pathways.   It's all very scientific, hopefully I learn more soon.   Is this a miracle?   I feel that I have my share of them along the way...   Only time will tell.    

Yvonne and I attended a Big Climb team captains meeting last week, we just want to say the event is close to selling out, if you'd like to join our team go to bigclimb.org and sign up.   The  password is dolphin8.   Fund raising is going well, for the healthy among us I have Jamba Juice cards to distribute or sell @ $10 each, they are BOGO buy one get one free cards for 8 free smoothies and the team collects half of the money... Just let me know if you'd like some.   The first two requestors also receive a free 16 oz. Jamba of their choice coupon from us.    PS: If you need any more motivation, the X gym produces a great video and help about stair climbing at there website; xgym.com

David and the 23rd Psalm

I've been becoming more interested in learning and reading especially this past week.   I came off of a new chemo for me and had 3 of 4 treatments ending on Wednesday.   Since then I have gone steadily downhill and have felt much worse, hastening a Dr. visit to today instead of waiting until Thursday.   Since I'm doing a lot of laying down I do have time to learn.   One of my many topics has been the Bible.   There is so much to learn about, how does someone like me who has limited time left prioritize and get the most I can?   That being said, I took the 23rd Psalm which has to be one if the most quoted Bible verses and researched the heck out of it.   Instead of the typical history lesson, I became interested in how the Psalm had been incorporated into art and music.  Most of the funerals I have attended include the 23rd Psalm, several musical groups have used some or all of the powerful Psalm, and some groups have alluded to the meaning of the Psalm.   At the same time a commenter suggested "Ripple" from the Grateful Dead as a song to post.   It might be a strong coincidence but Ripple written by longtime GD collaborator/lyricist Robert Hunter (look up his history!) does have quite a few references to the 23rd Psalm incorporated into the tune.  


Once I discovered that longtime Grateful Dead lyricist Robert Hunter used some 23rd Psalm references in the song, I thought a lot more about the Psalm.   The Psalm is so simple and easy to understand.    In the Latin, the cup reference is translated:   You have anointed my head with oil, and my cup, which inebriates me, how brilliant it is!   It gives the Psalm a bit of different take. There are many interpretations and translations of the 23rd Psalm, here is the standard often used version:

A Psalm of David
1. The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want
2. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures, He leadeth me beside the still waters
3. He restoreth my soul, He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake
4. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil, for thou art with me, Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me
5. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies, Thou annointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over
6. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever


See if you can pick up the 23rd Psalm in the Grateful Dead and Ripple.  If not, you can always hear a direct quote in many a Gospel song or Pink Floyd's Sheep.   My cup which inebriates me is still bright, kept alive by good thoughts and prayers from so many kind people.    I hope your cup overflows as well.   Live Happy, Greg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVdTQ3OPtGY&feature=player_embedded 

"Can't Buy Me Love"

Hey All!  First I have a shameless plug...For the next several blog posts I will be adding the Big Climb information as I am hoping to encourage some extra team members to join and of course any donations we can get.   The last two years our team was a top ten fundraising team among 6000 participants and several hundred teams.   We would like to make it a top five or even the top team this year.   There is still time to join, get ready if you have never climbed 69 floors before (it's doable for just about everyone one step at a time), and raise funds.   If you sign up and are not sure whether to join as a racer or climber, I suggest racer- that way if you want a "time" you can get it, and if you want to change to being an un-timed climber you can do that at the event without any issues.   To change from climber to racer is much more difficult... So far our team captain has raised over $500 setting the early pace.   I will join as soon as I am sure my leg is OK.



Team Name is: The Long and Winding Road
Team Captain: Yvonne Dymerski
Date: Sunday March 25


Here is the link:  The Big Climb


If you want to sign up you will need to find the team by name, the password to join is dolphin8 the discount code is: 076420911189 which will save you $5 at checkout.


Now to why I chose "Can't Buy Me Love."   The Beatles had just become all the rage in Great Britain, performing all over the country and in select European locales.   Paul and company were in Paris in January of 1964, according to many published reports Paul wanted to create a bluesy song that as is very obvious- demonstrated material possessions are not as important as finding love. "Can't Buy Me Love" was the sixth Beatles single, it went to number 1 quickly and for awhile it was #1 with four other Beatles songs #2-5 at one time- no other group has ever had the top five in Billboard's top 100 at the same time.   The attached video is from the British TV show Ready Steady Go and shows John singing a lot.  On record Paul was really the only singer, John and George sang some back-up during the chorus.  The song was also featured in the movie A Hard Day's Night in two scenes.   I like the message of course, it's true in so many applications.   In my situation money can't buy me remission.  But, I am close.   If the snow hadn't cancelled radiation today, I feel like my leg would be free of tumors today. Radiation will resume Thursday I hope, the femur tumors should be gone by Friday.   I am scheduled for four days of a new chemo (Clofarabine) next week Monday-Thursday that should give me the best chance at getting to remission one more time.   By the way, give me an email or call if you'd like to visit as I will be in Federal Way at St. Francis Hospital in the Medical building each day from 8:00 to probably 1:00 or longer.    My improvement I am sure is due to prayers, motivation, support, and help from you all.   Our daughter Natalie is coming to visit for the weekend from Hawaii, so everything is set up for a great week next week.   We are attending a Big Climb team captain social on Friday, we should have more information after that as well.    Enjoy the early Beatles!

"Rocky Racoon"

Most people (in 1968) thought Rocky Raccoon was Paul writing a country and western tune about the wild west and some of the typical stereotypes. Paul was actually spoofing folk songs of the time.   What the song really means only Paul knows.    It is a sad song about a love triangle, Rocky might even die at the end.   The attached homemade video is really well done, I tip my cap to the video producers.   



Relaxing with Michelle's "Pats" blanket, John D in the background



Trevor, Rochelle, baby Tristan and a big climb donation!

It's been a long week with a lot of news.   On Tuesday I had en early morning Dr. Senecal Appointment.   He called Thursday night and confirmed I indeed did break my pubic raymus (pelvic bone in the front)   then the really bad news-   the MRI found cancer in the front of the femur, and in other areas around the knee and leg.    Dr. Senecal hit me with being close to the end, and radiation or chemo are my only options.   So, radiation started the next day.   My Friday radiation was a good time, knowing it might be the only tool left to stop the proverbial bleeding.  I will go in M-Th next week for the remaining treatments, and then do some chemo based on what happens with radiation.   Back to hospice...  

My Doctor and many in the medical community tell me the cancer is progressing fast, changing and morphing to the point where there are not any treatments left.   Like Rocky Raccoon, I am in the corner with a few band-aids but gosh darn it I AM NOT QUITTING!   I am stopping the bleeding and as hopeful as a man can be.   I do believe in miracles.   

"He Aint Heavy... He's My Brother"

The beginning to "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother"  It might be eerily similar to the title of my blog...

"The road is long
With many a winding turn
That leads us to who knows where
Who knows when
But I'm strong
Strong enough to carry him
He ain't heavy, he's my brother"

January 10, 2012 let it be said that yours truly ventured more into "the realm" than ever before.   I was talking to my Dad on the phone, he in sunny Southern California me in the cloudy Pacific Northwest.    Again, like so many times before one of the things on mind was a song dealing with emotion.   I knew that Yvonne and I were seeing Dr. Senecal today to map out our near and long term future.   I am currently experiencing some significant pain in my right hip and leg and a general downhill feeling all around.   The Hollies version of the classic "He Ain't Heavy" came out in 1969.  Surprisingly it never made it past number 7 in the USA and number 3 in England.   The song was written by Bobby Scott and Bob Russell.   Russell was dying of Lymphoma when the song was recorded by The Hollies, and eventually died of the blood cancer in 1970.  Most lyricists believe  the title came from the motto for Boys Town, a community formed in 1917 by a Catholic priest named Father Edward Flanagan.   Located in Omaha, Nebraska, it was a place where troubled or homeless boys could come for help.   In 1941, Father Flanagan was looking at a magazine called The Messenger when he came across a drawing of a boy carrying a younger boy on his back, with the caption, "He ain't heavy Mr., he's my brother." Father Flanagan thought the image and phrase captured the spirit of Boys Town, so he got permission and commissioned a statue of the drawing with the inscription, "He ain't heavy Father, he's my brother."    The statue and phrase became the logo for Boys Town.   In 1979, girls were allowed and the name was eventually changed to Girls And Boys Town.   The logo was updated with a drawing of a girl carrying a younger girl added.   The recording by the Hollies included then session musician Elton "Reg" John on piano, and Graham Nash had recently departed to be part of the super-group CSN and later CSNY.

We had an interesting meeting with Dr. Senecal, he is working on finding me some Chlofarabine to give it one last shot at somehow finding my way back to remission.   He also wanted to prepare us for palliative care (just prior to hospice) in case I can't reach remission. The odds, they are stacked against me but there is no quit in me.   I love this song and it goes out to everyone who can provide some help to others. Also to those who need the help, take it and don't complain!   Live Happy like it might be your last day.

One more thing for 2012!    BIG CLIMB information- as we have a team once again for the March 25 event.   (The Long and Winding Road)

 Here is the link:   The Big Climb

If you want to sign up you will need to find the team by name, the password to join is dolphin8 the discount code is: 076420911189 which will save you $5.

*I'm Only Sleeping* UPDATED BIG CLIMB INFO

Well hello 2012!    About half way down I updated the Big Climb sign up information including how to save $5 off of the entry fee. Our team deserves the break considering how much money we have and will raise for the society!

How many of us are still writing 2011 on things, probably not checks 'cause who uses those anymore... I am very hopeful that the new year is bringing peace and joy to the masses.   Sadie, Yvonne, Mikhael and I are making the best of this chance for renewal and although I am not privy to their New Years resolution's I will share mine.    I resolve to get rid of quite a nasty temper that seems to have crept into my daily living.   I usually resolve to shed a few pounds, get in better shape, do some fix-ups, etc.   I chose my title and blog theme today based solely on the 1966 mainly John Lennon song- and he meant it;   I'm Only Sleeping.   It was released in the US on the Yesterday and Today album, in the UK and everywhere else it was included on the Revolver album.   I don't know why Capitol and EMI did those early Beatles mix ups for the US.   John was interviewed by a reporter in 1966 and Ms. Cleave gave him the moniker- Laziest man in England.   She was his friend!   The tune is hauntingly almost hazy due to some George Harrison backwards guitar loops during some key parts of the song.   The wizardry conveyed at the time the best technology available to seem sleepy.  

I have been sleeping during the day lately, not quite the laziest man in America just yet- I can't sleep a night through for some reason.   I might have to resort to some help from Dr. Robert- I will give it a few more nights first.   On New Year's eve I took a nasty fall, thought I might have broken my hip or femur.   I am still waiting for the X-ray return, but now I think it is just a bad groin pull.   It was my fault- Sadie walked in front of me to sniff a new dog- I didn't anticipate... and many a kind sole witnessed and offered me help.   Yvonne and Sadie ran a couple of miles to home, got the car and saved me one more time!   Since then I have also been in the middle of this newer Chemo protocol called MOAD.   I finish the first round  next Monday and Tuesday.   My blood levels are down, white's are at 1.5; platelets in the 50's if they stay there I should be good to go.   

One more thing for 2012!    BIG CLIMB information- as we have a team once again for the March 25 event.   (The Long and Winding Road)

 Here is the link:   The Big Climb

If you want to sign up you will need to find the team by name, the password to join is dolphin8 the discount code is: 076420911189 which will save you $5.
and you are good to go. Contributing doesn't require a password. To join, click on the link; click Big Climb; then register; then join team; type in the first three words, (The Long And) and towards the bottom you will see the team highlighted. Click on the red join button on the right side and follow the rest of the prompts.

You can sign up to climb on our team; or you can donate to Yvonne or Mikhael Dymerski as they have signed up already.    There is a discount available on Pyramid beer six packs, I will find it and post that too.   Any help or new team members are welcome, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is one of the good fund raisers, they help people with financial support and spend a lot of money towards research.   Please enjoy the video, imagine yourself in 1966 as a multimillionaire who is bored when not touring or writing songs, lays down on the couch and snoozes off into the day or night.   I resolve to live more happy!