Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of ThePancreatitisPlace
Hosted Chat
Wednesday March 10, 2004
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
The next reminder for this event will be sent in 22 hours, 58 minutes.
Event Location: AOL's TPP Chatroom
Notes:
This is a hosted chat in AOLs TPP Chat room. You need AOL or free AIM (www.aim.com) to access this chat. Email or send us a message for the link to the room.
ReeAnn@...
Dear Robert,
I had my Whipple done in Portland, Maine. The only
place in the state that will do it. Mine was removed
due to severe calcification and hardened and brittle
disease. They removed 3/4 of the head of it.
How do you feel now that you have had it done?
Please respond.
Thanks,
Donna Goodine
Hermon, Maine
Hi Ellen,
I sent him a card and just got back a acknowlement that they received
it. But I doubt if they will give it to him while he is in the
hospital. I do like your idea. If everybody would send him a
card...Then it just might do some good.
Thanks,
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
How about each of us sending a card to John Ashcroft to let him know
that he's not alone and that there are groups of us out there?
Hi Rhonda,
Glad you are having a beautiful spring day where you are. It has been
pretty here for the past week and now it is getting chilly again. And
the weather man is talking about snow again---No more snow!!!! Need
the sunshine back! About the chat---will send you the link to get in.
Put me on your AIM list as enoreeboater and then we can talk whenever
you are online. I don't have your AIM screen-name. Can you give it to
me? Sometimes the chat will last til after 10:00. We have focus chat
on thrusday nights and another chat on Sunday night.
I finally figured the photos section out. It won't do the normal way
(I don't know why, just yet ) AIM me and I will try and walk you
through it.
How is Amanda doing? I hope everything is alright with her. Tell her
we said hello. Sorry to hear about your Grandmother. I have never
been around someone with Alzheimers. I know it must be hard . Robert
has a 82 year old aunt that is forgetting things. And the other
family members say that she is getting Alzheimers also. I don't know.
She knows everybody around her, she just forgets things, but at 82 ,
I guess that is expected. I am 40 and forget things all the time!!!!!
Well, I am going to close for now--but don't forget to add me to your
AIM list. Hoping you and your family a good night.
God Bless
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hi Everybody
just thought I would let you know that Attorney General ashcroft has
joined us on the Merry-Go-Round that we are all on. On the radio in
New York today they said that Attorney General Ashcroft was having
his gallbladder removed for precaution. This sounds like the story I
was told six years ago. I just wish him a speedy recovery and hope
that his doctors don't keep him on the Merry-Go-Round that we all
have been on for quite some time.
Bruce
Long Island NY
Please remember this is just my opinion
Dear Donna,
You are correct!!! I had my whipple 12 years ago. There was no
cancer detected then. I had a cancer check in January of this year
and none was detected at all. Where did you have your whipple done?
Mine was done at Duke University Medical Center. What pancreas they
removed was just as bad as what they left me with.
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
roberthammett@...
Hello {{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{Everyone}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}
Thanks to the hard work of Bruce and Robert, we now have a Members Code of
Conduct. It is posted on the files section of TPP and is included below.
Please take a few minutes to review the Members Code of Conduct. I believe most
people here used enough common sense to automatically abide by these rules.
That is all they are really... Common sense and respecting one another. We
just needed to get them formalized in light of recent events.
MEMBERS CODE OF CONDUCT:
Do unto others as you will have them do unto you.
This simple statement is the backbone of our Members Code of Conduct.
It means respect for other members in all ways. If you don't have
something nice to say, don't say (post) anything at all. Understand that
everyone is here to learn how to do the right thing in living with pancreatitis
and does not need derogative statements about where they are at the
moment. This includes posts made on TPP and other groups as well.
Unlawful activities are not allowed.
Unlawful activity is not allowed in any context on TPP. Do not mention any
illegal activity such as sharing of medications. Posts mentioning illegal
activities will be deleted immediately and member will be placed on
moderated status.
Act within the laws of society and cyberspace
In addition to the rules and regulations regarding your behavior in society
Dear Robert,
I don't mean to be contradictive, but the Whipple is
NOT only for cancer patients.
Donna Goodine
Hermon, Maine
Dear Robert,
I had the Whipple in May 2003. My surgery was due to
alot of calcification and total brital pancreas. They
removed all of the organ except for a small portion of
the tail. Stenting and all did not work.
Just thought I'd add my 2 cents.
Have a pain free day, all
Donna Goodine
Hermon, Maine
Hello Brenda and Ryan,
Good morning to both of you this morning. We have you both in our
hearts this morning. Please let us know how things turn out today. We
will keep you in our prayers all day.With much love.
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hi Pam.
Hope you have a very good vacation. Head someone with loads of
sunshine!!! Have a blast. God Bless you.
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of ThePancreatitisPlace
Ryans Surgery---Noon
Monday March 8, 2004
All Day
This event does not repeat.
Notes:
Please EVERYONE pray for Ryan and his family!!!
Hi Gary
I just want you to know grammar is only part of it. what came out of
you was you heart is what counts. The reason why they have erasers on
pencils is to take care of grammar mistakes, nothing can erase what
comes from you heart. Keep up the good work
stay well
Bruce
LI New York
Hi Vicky
Haven't seen any post lately form you and was wondering if every
thing is all right with you and your love one. I remember reading
your partner diabetes is getting worse and hope this not the case
now. I all ways enjoy reading your post because you seem to have
such good spirits of life. Hope to here from you soon and every one
well.
Warmish Regards
Gary Morris ~ Virginia
Customer Service Rep moderator.
Phone 434-490-7191
gary@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hello Ellen,
I do not have any degrees and it shows in my grammar, Ree
tells me I can't read straight sometime and even this is true, but I
do know I would not mess with a tough Brooklyn-born lady, I tip my
hat to you girl.
I am still leaning we have to fight for our rights for those
who suffer with this illness. No one should have to live a life of
pain. I would like to join you in this fight and maybe in a small
way I can make a difference. I don't carry a sharp pin like you, but
I love a good old barnyard fight. That I can handle.. Best wishes
to you Ellen and Go girl.
Warmish Regards
Gary Morris ~ Virginia
Customer Service Rep moderator.
Phone 434-490-7191
gary@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of ThePancreatitisPlace
Hosted Chat - ReeAnn
Sunday March 7, 2004
8:00 pm - 10:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
The next reminder for this event will be sent in 23 hours, 4 minutes.
Event Location: AOL's TPP Chat room
Notes:
ReeAnn ~ CoOwner will host a chat in AOLs TPP Chat room. You will need AOL or free AIM (www.aim.com) to access this Chat room. Please email us for the link.
DeniseHallock@...
MsReeAnnBetts@...
Hi Ellen,
I read your letter and liked it very much----Well Said!!!! I hope
they publish it. Let us know if they do. I am going to write one for
my newspaper.
God Bless
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
As I stated in a private email to ReeAnn, Mr. Ashcroft's situation
might be the only chance for us to benefit in terms of getting media
attention for our plight.
I've already submitted a letter to The New York Times in the
hope that they will publish it.
Here's what I wrote:
<<Sadly, as with many diseases and conditions, unless a prominent
person/celebrity or their family member has it, many suffer
without the public's knowledge.
Mr. Ashcroft's current hospitalization for acute pancreatitis
brought on by gallstones might finally help those of us with
chronic pancreatitis (CP). A great many of us developed it when
gallstones jammed our common bile and/or pancreatic ducts.
If we can actually obtain the diagnosis, which can take years
of tests, procedures and countless hospitalizations, we are often
accused of being alcoholics and pain drug seekers. I seriously
doubt that's the case with Mr. Ashcroft.
Pancreatitis is excruciatingly painful and messy. In its chronic
form, it is disabling. And it can kill.
I know all too well because I have had it for over ten years.
Like others with it, I had to fight for Social Security Disability
benefits. It's a lengthy process that most often leads to a hearing
before a judge, usually with a costly attorney present. That's
because Chronic Pancreatitis is not on the short list for automatic
approval of benefits.
Many CP patients have lost their jobs, life savings, homes, personal
relationships and dignity while waiting for the Social Security
Administration to handle their cases.
I am truly sorry for Mr. Ashcroft's suffering, but hope that it will
help raise awareness.
Hi Pam,
Nice to meet you. Whatever problems you may have with pancreatitis,
everyone here knows what you are going through. I enjoyed reading
your post. Feel free to post anytime you want to. Have a very nice
day.
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
thank you , really enjoyed the chat. when does it start again today??or is it
sunday.,sorry short term memory...brenda
Robert Hammett <roberthammett@...
This is the article that is in our files section. I enjoyed chatting
with you tonight. You make chat special.
God Bless,
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
roberthammett@...
Hi Ellen,
Thanks for sharing the information with me. I have register this
morning and I do not think I would have found this one on my own. I
found lots of stuff on my illness Marfan's syndrome Thanks again and
Hope you doing well and our prayer and thoughts are with
you.
Gary Morris ~ Virginia
Customer Service Rep moderator.
Phone 434-490-7191
gary@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hello {{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{Everyone}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}},
I just heard from Brenda about Ryan's surgery. They have moved it up
to Noon on Monday central time. I will be calling Brenda that afternoon
and will post as soon as I hear anything about his surgery.
Please keep Ryan in your prayers. He has been through so much in his
precious life, it really breaks my heart to see him facing yet another
surgery.
ReeAnn M. Betts-Morris - VA
Owner, ThePancreatitisPlace
434-409-7162
Hi All
I don't post too often probably because I am one of those who had a single
attack of severe pancreatitis. It was in October of 2001 and other than a few
"flare ups" have not had another real attack. I will admit that the original
attack darned near killed me, I really to this day do not believe that my
physician expected me to make it. I spent 22 days in the hospital over half of
that in the definitive observation unit ( one step below ICU ), went into
respiratory distress, became diabetic, needed a picc line put in , had blood
transfusions and then to top it off had a pulmonary embolism. Just this last
December
I was diagnosed with tons of tiny gallstones and had my gallbladder removed.
I have not had an attack of any sort since ( knock on wood) So while i did
have an immediate diagnosis of severe pancreatitis, I am not chronic and
hopefully will not become so. But I truly do understand fully how much pain and
suffering you all go thru on a daily basis. I hold all of you in thought and
prayer. Sorry this was so long, just wanted to share.
Pam in Santa Clarita
Hi Pam,
Just got up and read your post. Every one who has teen touch by
this illness one way or another has their on story to tell. Thanks
for taken the time to share yours with us. It is always good to hear
form you. Hope you doing well and our prayer and thoughts are with
you.
Gary Morris ~ Virginia
Customer Service Rep moderator.
Phone 434-490-7191
gary@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Brenda,
This is the article that is in our files section. I enjoyed chatting
with you tonight. You make chat special.
God Bless,
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
roberthammett@...
Brenda/Ryan,
Just a note to let you know that Ryan is in our prayers tonight and
as he goes through his surgery tommorow.Brenda, your little boy is in
good hands. The Lord will take care of him and help you handle
things. We love you and are praying for you.
Robert and Denise
Thank you, i felt really bad after what i had said, but now i know im not the
only one...
jaysparky2001 <PoppysMakayla@...
be told what is wrong with him
in a DAY ,when some of us had to wait months and sometimes years. I
wish him a speedy recovery but If he can be told so fast what is
wrong with him, what about us. we are Americans also
Bruce
Please remember this is solely my opinion
How Strange the Attorney General can be told what is wrong with him
in a DAY ,when some of us had to wait months and sometimes years. I
wish him a speedy recovery but If he can be told so fast what is
wrong with him, what about us. we are Americans also
Bruce
Please remember this is solely my opinion
WASHINGTON - Attorney General John Ashcroft was in a hospital intensive care
unit Friday after suffering a severe case of gallstone pancreatitis, a serious
and painful abdominal illness.
Ashcroft, a 61-year-old former Missouri senator and governor, was being treated
with antibiotics. The ailment often clears up after a week or so of treatment
but sometimes requires surgery. In extreme cases, it can cause death.
Doctors at George Washington University Hospital said they needed more time to
evaluate Ashcroft and make a prognosis. It's possible Ashcroft could remain
hospitalized for a month or more, medical experts said.
President Bush spoke briefly with Ashcroft by telephone Friday afternoon, White
House press secretary Scott McClellan said.
"Our thoughts are with the attorney general," McClellan said in Crawford, Texas.
"We wish him a speedy recovery."
Under Justice Department rules, Deputy Attorney General James Comey is
authorized to exercise "all power and authority" of the attorney general. No
transfer of power is necessary.
Ashcroft initially thought his sudden sickness was a stomach flu. But he began
feeling so ill Thursday afternoon that he canceled an appearance at a news
conference where he was to announce terrorism convictions.
After returning to his Capitol Hill home, his condition worsened and he was
examined by Dr. Daniel Parks, the White House physician, said Justice Department
spokesman Mark Corallo. Parks advised Ashcroft to go to an emergency room, and
the attorney general was taken to the hospital Thursday evening.
"After a full medical work-up in the emergency room, it was determined that he
was suffering from a severe case of gallstone pancreatitis," Corallo said.
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, a gland that secretes digestive
enzymes and insulin. The two main causes are alcohol abuse and, as in Ashcroft's
case, a gallstone that blocks the passage from the pancreas to the beginning of
the small intestine. It also may be caused by infection, injury or certain
medications.
The illness also often occurs when a gallstone becomes lodged in the passage
that leads from the pancreas to the small intestine. Symptoms include sudden,
severe abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and fever.
About 20 percent of the 80,000 cases of acute pancreatitis each year are
classified as severe, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Dr. John Baillie, a gastroenterologist and professor of medicine at Duke
University Medical Center, said people with severe pancreatitis often stay in
the hospital for a month or longer. He said there is a 10 percent to 20 percent
risk of death, but those tend to occur among older people who have underlying
medical conditions such as kidney disease or poorly controlled diabetes.
Baillie explained that pancreatitis is "like a hand grenade going off, an
explosion in the abdomen" that essentially shuts down the digestive system and
causes a sharp internal buildup in fluids.
Treatment involves fasting, to allow the pancreas to rest by reducing its
secretions, as well as antibiotics and painkillers. Pancreatitis caused by a
gallstone usually eases when the gallstone passes, but sometimes surgery is
necessary.
Much depends on whether the inflammation is severe enough to cause serious
damage to the pancreas, which can trigger low blood pressure and damage other
organs. Half of all severe pancreatitis patients require surgery later to remove
dead tissue in the pancreas.
Ashcroft is something of a fitness buff. He enjoys hiking, skiing, playing
basketball and clearing brush on property he owns in western Virginia. He
usually takes five flights of stairs rather than the elevator to and from his
office suite in the Justice Department.
He also is highly religious. At the Springfield, Mo., headquarters of his
denomination, the Assemblies of God, the Rev. Thomas E. Trask used the intercom
system to lead some 1,100 employees in a prayer for Ashcroft.
Associated Press Medical Writer Lauran Neergaard contributed to this report.
On the Net:
National Institutes of Health: http://www.nih.gov
George Washington University Hospital: http://gwhospital.com
Justice Department: http://www.usdoj.gov
ReeAnn M. Betts-Morris - VA
Owner, ThePancreatitisPlace
434-409-7162
I Loretta,
I am SO GLAD that you are feeling better. I was worried about you
girl at the chat the other night. I am glad it stopped raining too.
Everybody needs a little sunshine in their life!!!! SMILE!!!!Hope you
continue to have a good day and a pain free night.
God Bless you Loretta!!!
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hi Rhonda,
Thanks for writing back. I do not consider myself an amazing woman. I
am just Denise!!!What you see is what you get. I am just a country
girl from South Carolina. A Preachers kid from the South!!!!
But I do understand what all of you caregivers are going thru cause I
have been there for 9 years with Robert. It may be true that he has
no pain now due to him burning his pancreas out, but he WAS in pain
for almost 15 years, and 9 of that I was right by his side. When I
first met him, I didn't understand it at all!!!All I knew was that he
would hurt so bad when he ate, sometimes when he did't eat, he stayed
nausea all the time. The first time I saw him in a ball in the
bathroom floor, I didn't know what to do. He talked me thru it cause
he already had been dealing with it for years. I felt so helpless!!!!
That day, I cried and cried with him, for him!!!I also understand
what you are talking about, cause I would ask him, "Are you still
hurting that bad" I could have kicked myself the moment it came out
of my mouth. No I DO NOT know what it feels like but I have seen it
put a grown man in the floor. Now we deal with the briddle diabetes.
You have to control it VERY CAREFULLY!!!Robert still has to take
ensymes for the rest of his life, and he still has some other side
affects from the pancreas, but for now I thank the Lord that he can
eat and not hurt. I have supper in the oven now and he is pacing the
floor, saying that the whole house smells good enough to eat!!! So I
guess I better get off her and go feed the man!!!
Give Amanda my love
God Bless
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hi Ruthie,
How are you today? Hope things are good for you. It's such another
beautiful day here. I sure hope you are having good weather. I bet it
is pretty down around Charleston right now. I have family down there.
My dad is on vacation right now, visiting my Grandparents in
Lambertown~~That is near Georgetown. Do you know where that is?
If you need Robert to do anymore research, just ask him. I hope you
have a pain free night.
God Bless
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Welcome,
All new members. As I was reading the post I seen we have several. This is a
good place to help with answers as well make some friends who share what you
are going though. So, welcome to TPP.
Loretta in Oklahoma
Hello {{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{Everyone}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}},
I just heard from Brenda about Ryan's surgery. They have moved it up to Noon on
Monday central time. I will be calling Brenda that afternoon and will post as
soon as I hear anything about his surgery.
Please keep Ryan in your prayers. He has been through so much in his precious
life, it really breaks my heart to see him facing yet another surgery.
ReeAnn M. Betts-Morris - VA
Owner, ThePancreatitisPlace
434-409-7162
After responding in anger, i hope the US Attorney General has a full
recovery...brenda
bkstars2000 <bkstars2000@...
Attorney General, that was rush to
the hospital for Panc...my husband is alittle angry because, knowing
that we are all sick and with him there will probably be a postitve
outcome for him...just in my opinion isnt it weird how someone lets
say the President gets cancer and all of the sudden they are cured..
sorry just had to get it off my chest...
www.thepancreatitisplace.org
Just got the news about the US Attorney General, that was rush to
the hospital for Panc...my husband is alittle angry because, knowing
that we are all sick and with him there will probably be a postitve
outcome for him...just in my opinion isnt it weird how someone lets
say the President gets cancer and all of the sudden they are cured..
sorry just had to get it off my chest...
Denise,
You are an amazing women! There are days when we must give in and
cry with our loved ones. That is ok, I think it helps remind them
they are not alone. I've cried with Amanda on occasion (because some
days or even hours are just so bad) and I think it helped her to see
my cry. Stay strong, but remember it is ok to cry sometimes.
As a caregiver, I sometimes feel guilty for questioning Amanda about
the pain. I want her to "get better" so bad, that sometimes I push a
little too hard and it makes her think I don't think she is hurting.
Days into an attack, I have found myself saying things like "it's not
hurting that bad still, is it??" Then I feel awful! I have thought
so many times that I wish I could have an attack just so I would be
able to feel what she is feeling.
Rhonda
Tulsa, OK
Welcome John, I'm Brenda 30 yrs old diagnosed 3 1/2 yrs ago, still learning alot
from this disease...there's going to be alot of bumpy road , you'll go through
but this group and myself will be here to help you get through them.. I wish you
a pain free day...and take care....
ur friend, brenda
John <adamsclimber@...
Hello everyone, and thanks for the welcome Denise. New both to the
board and to Pancreatitis. Heck can't even hardly spell it yet.
Not even sure how bad things are yet, sheduled to see a doc again
here in the next lil bit, and am trying to arm myself with as much
info and questions to ask as possible. Been a mjor uphill battle
with these HMO guys thus far to even get any idea of what is going
on in there, so have been trying to read as much as possible and
solicit some opinions from folks that already have some experience
living with the condition..
Will take as much help as you kind folks can provide.
Thanks in advance,
John
www.thepancreatitisplace.org
I am going to get the information out on the Whipple. If these links
are not clickable, please copy and paste.
Thanks,
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
roberthammett@...
Hello everyone, and thanks for the welcome Denise. New both to the
board and to Pancreatitis. Heck can't even hardly spell it yet.
Not even sure how bad things are yet, sheduled to see a doc again
here in the next lil bit, and am trying to arm myself with as much
info and questions to ask as possible. Been a mjor uphill battle
with these HMO guys thus far to even get any idea of what is going
on in there, so have been trying to read as much as possible and
solicit some opinions from folks that already have some experience
living with the condition..
Will take as much help as you kind folks can provide.
Thanks in advance,
John
I recieved this e-mail and thought some of you would be interested.
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
roberthammett@...
Hi Denise,
Hope your week has gone good. We have had rain, rain, rain here in
Oklahoma. But today the sun is peeking out and the grass is turning
green. :-)
I think I have set up an AIM instant messager account. I hope to be
able to attend a chat session soon. My evenings are usually active
with kids stuff, homework and stuff, but I want to join once in a
while and get to know everyone better.
I'll try another shot at the pictures since you have had success.
I've been seeing some of your recipes....I bet you are a wonderful
cook! Robert is a lucky man!!! By the way, how is his Grandma doing?
Amanda has had a great week. Kids are looking forward to spring
break in a couple of weeks.... oh to be young again!!
Have a good day.
Rhonda
Tulsa, OK
As many of us can attest through personal experience, an ERCP can
trigger acute pancreatitis. That's because the pancreas can go into
"overdrive" after it has been manipulated.
That's what happened to me after each of my ERCPs and the
EUS pancreatic biopsy that I underwent years ago.
Listed below is the link to an article from The Journal of
Gastroenterology and Hepatology entitled "Can Somatostatin Prevent
Post-ERCP Pancreatitis? Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial?"
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/468370?mpid=25405
This initial study involved the use of Somatostatin (Octreotide)
which suppresses pancreatic secretions.
As is written, much more study is needed.
-Ellen in New York
Hi Rita,
I am glad you had a beautiful day too!!! We had supper on the front
porch!! My daughter put a vase of flowers on the porch table and it
was so beautiful out there. Was a good day altogether! Sorry to hear
about your back. I have 4 disc in my spine that have crumbled. They
tell me that I have degenrative disc deasease. I didn't add that in
my post cause I have been dealing with that so long that I am sure
people are tired of hearing me say"My back hurts" . I went to a pain
clinic for 7 years and quit going last march. He had me on too much
pain meds and it began to mess with my head so I quit all pain meds.
So I do know what you are talking about when you say your back hurts.
I take extreme amount of OTC meds though. I just have to push that
aside when Robert needs me. Cause the way I see it, he is much sicker
than me and he needs me. I don't mind cause I so do love that man!!!
And don't let me get going on about him, cause I can get carried away
with that!!!
I am glad that you got the info on Islet transplant. Robert saw that
on the board, alot of people were asking about it so he did some
research on it. He is going to post the research about the whipple in
a little while. But I can tell you what it is---It is an operation
that removes part of the pancreas , tail or head. Thats what it is
called. Robert had 2/3 of his taken out in 1992.Then a few years
later, they found out that the remaining 1/3 was so deteriated and it
had a cyst on it. They wouldn't go inside and destroy the cyst
because they were afraid that they would destory the remaining
pancreas. Instead they gave him oral meds to dry the cyst up. It did
in time and then in time he burned his whole pancreas out. It has
taken his 14 years to do it, but he can eat now without the pain, but
it made him a briddle diabetic.
Well I didn't mean to write a book. I hope Beauford has a pain free
night. And yes, I spoil Robert too!!! I tuck him in and take off his
shoes and rubs his feet!!!I better shut up!!!
Hi Denise, IT was a beautiful day today. I gave our dog a bath,he was not to
happy about that. Your email really hit home today. Even thpugh Beauford is
doing better I still have alot to do.I don't mind any of it if it helps him. I
have a bad back. I have had 2 operations on my back but still hurt all the time,
but I just try and forget it as much as I can and do what I need to do.----- I
enjoyed the chat room last night. I hope to get to know you all better. Your
info has been great, the drs. just don't answer all of our questions sometime.
I was going to ask some questions about Islets cells today but I saw where
Robert has already posted it. But some one was talking about Whipple surgery,
any info about that.We didn't know what that is. --------Beauford has had
another good day other than being alittle nauseas today. He says I have spoiled
him. I told him I was going to ask everyone if they tuck their spouses in
everynight like I do! Well I hope everyone is having a good
day and pain free night. -------Rita
Denise <Denise@...
Today is such a beautiful day here at my house. I sure hope each and
every one of you had a good day also. I took a little time for myself
today. I cleaned out a closet that had been needing it, and then got
a book and a glass of diet coke and went out on the porch to enjoy
the sunshine. Oh,it felt sooo good. After supper tonight I plan on
taking a walk around the block with my daughter(Sherry).
Sometimes we tend to be so wrapped up in our loved ones until we
forget about ourselves. I know I do, I can get so focused on Robert
and just forget myself. And I had paid the price for it too---I
didn't get my blood pressure medicine filled one time ( I just didn't
take the time to go back to the doctor for myself- as things were so
hectic at home)....Well, that was not the right thing for me to have
done. After they had admitted Robert to the hospital, the second
night I ended up in the cardiology room with B/P of 217/165!!!!
Having chest pains and nerves all a mess cause I was worried about
Robert up in room 709 and worried about Sherry sitting beside my
bed ,holding my hand, worried and crying. I looked at her and
realized that I HAD to start taking better care of ME cause without
me --Who would take care of that beautiful girl sitting across the
bed from me and who would take care of my husband laying in the
hospital bed in real bad shape.? I closed my eyes and asked the Lord
for helo alone the way, then I opened my eyes and looked at Sherry
and told her, "Baby , everythings gonna be alright!!! The doctor told
me I was under a lot of stress and gave me something for nerves and
B/P medicine and kept me until my B/P stabled. I went back up to
Roberts room and from that moment on, I started taking better care of
myself, and my B/P is ok now!!! I guess the reason I am writing this,
is because It is a hard job that we have , but if we love these
people then we WILL do it and DO do it, but we got to keep ourselves
well so they can have us. I enjoy taking care of Robert... He does
the same for me when I am sick.
Sometimes its hard on us cause it hard for us to see our loved ones
in such pain. It hits to the very pit of your stomach and aches your
heart. Those of the times that are the hardest!!!! I admit to it too--
-I cry when he is crying or sick---Yes I try to be brave, but
sometimes its just too much and it wells up in my throat and it just
comes out. I just do what I can for him and then hold him or just sit
beside him until he goes to sleep. Then I go somewhere to myself and
have a good cry to get it all out so I can go back and take care of
my family. I do alot of praying for strenght and humbleness. I HAVE
to be humble cause he can't help that he is sick. Well , here I have
gone on and on about me and that is not what I set out to do---
Sorry!!!
God Bless Each and Everyone !!!
My prayers are with you.
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of ThePancreatitisPlace
Focused Chat - Nutrition and Counting Fat Gram
Thursday March 11, 2004
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This event does not repeat.
The next reminder for this event will be sent in 6 days.
Event Location: TPP Chat room
Notes:
This focused chat will address the issues associated with dietary concerns associated with Pancreatitis. The host for this chat will be ReeAnn in VA
Hey Everybody,
If there is anyone out there with a juice maker, I have a recipe for
you, it is a pancreas rejuvenator. Try it and let me know if you like
it. I have tried it and I find that the apple adds the sweetness to
the juice. It is targeted for the pancreas.
Pancreas Rejuvenator
Hi John (adamsclimber),
I would like to welcome you to TPP.Please feel free to come on board
and meet everyone here. If you have any questions, fell free to ask
them and we will get back to you .
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hello,
Today is such a beautiful day here at my house. I sure hope each and
every one of you had a good day also. I took a little time for myself
today. I cleaned out a closet that had been needing it, and then got
a book and a glass of diet coke and went out on the porch to enjoy
the sunshine. Oh,it felt sooo good. After supper tonight I plan on
taking a walk around the block with my daughter(Sherry).
Sometimes we tend to be so wrapped up in our loved ones until we
forget about ourselves. I know I do, I can get so focused on Robert
and just forget myself. And I had paid the price for it too---I
didn't get my blood pressure medicine filled one time ( I just didn't
take the time to go back to the doctor for myself- as things were so
hectic at home)....Well, that was not the right thing for me to have
done. After they had admitted Robert to the hospital, the second
night I ended up in the cardiology room with B/P of 217/165!!!!
Having chest pains and nerves all a mess cause I was worried about
Robert up in room 709 and worried about Sherry sitting beside my
bed ,holding my hand, worried and crying. I looked at her and
realized that I HAD to start taking better care of ME cause without
me --Who would take care of that beautiful girl sitting across the
bed from me and who would take care of my husband laying in the
hospital bed in real bad shape.? I closed my eyes and asked the Lord
for helo alone the way, then I opened my eyes and looked at Sherry
and told her, "Baby , everythings gonna be alright!!! The doctor told
me I was under a lot of stress and gave me something for nerves and
B/P medicine and kept me until my B/P stabled. I went back up to
Roberts room and from that moment on, I started taking better care of
myself, and my B/P is ok now!!! I guess the reason I am writing this,
is because It is a hard job that we have , but if we love these
people then we WILL do it and DO do it, but we got to keep ourselves
well so they can have us. I enjoy taking care of Robert... He does
the same for me when I am sick.
Sometimes its hard on us cause it hard for us to see our loved ones
in such pain. It hits to the very pit of your stomach and aches your
heart. Those of the times that are the hardest!!!! I admit to it too--
-I cry when he is crying or sick---Yes I try to be brave, but
sometimes its just too much and it wells up in my throat and it just
comes out. I just do what I can for him and then hold him or just sit
beside him until he goes to sleep. Then I go somewhere to myself and
have a good cry to get it all out so I can go back and take care of
my family. I do alot of praying for strenght and humbleness. I HAVE
to be humble cause he can't help that he is sick. Well , here I have
gone on and on about me and that is not what I set out to do---
Sorry!!!
God Bless Each and Everyone !!!
My prayers are with you.
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
We had some talk about Islet Transplants during chat last night, I
was asked for some research material.
This is a listing of islet research centers that are, or soon will
be, engaged in human islet trials.
Thanks,
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
roberthammett@...
Hi Loretta,
I hope you got to feeling better after you left Chat tonight. I have
you in my prayers tonight. I am so sorry that you got so sick
tonight. Hoping that you have a pain free night and tomorrow as well.
God Bless and remember--You are in my prayers tonight.
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hi Ruthie,
How are you doing tonight? Hope everything is O.K. with you. I really
enjoyed talking to you tonight. You are truly a nice lady. Look
forward to talking to you again. God Bless you and may our prayers be
with you.
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hi Lynn,
Just wanted you to know how much I enjoyed getting to know you in
Chat tonight. I am glad that you found the family at TPP. Praying
that you have a pain free night. God Bless!!!!
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hi {{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{[[[Rita}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}
Hi and Welcome, Barumphus
First I must welcome to you to TPP. I really hope you enjoy your time
with us.Any time you have a question, please ask and there is always
someone here to answer any questions you may have. Everyone here has
been thru with what you are going thru or they are going thru it now.
We also have caregivers on board to help also. Please feel free to
use our links and file library. We look forward to meeting you very
soon.
God Bless and a very pain free day to you.
Thanks,
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Diabetes is a major health problem of pancreatitis. Please watch
these warning signs!!!
Thanks,
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
roberthammett@...
If these links are not clickble, please copy and paste.
Thanks,
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
roberthammett@...
Please copy and paste if these links are not clickable.
Thanks,
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
roberthammett@...
Thanks,
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
roberthammett@...
Hi Brenda,
Hope this finds all well. Sorry to hear that Ryan has to go yet
another surgery. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you go thru
this with him. Try to stay calm and remember that there are alot of
prayers going out for Ryan.
Many prayers
Denise Hammett
Rita
Pancreatitis is rare in children. Amanda has had 9 diagnosed acute
attacks and I can think of at least 3 other times prior to her
diagnosis which were probably attacks. Until this last attack, she
had been labeled as idiopathic, however, by doing an ERCP we were
able to see some abnormalities in her pancreatic ducts and also lots
of scar tissue from her earlier attacks. We feel very lucky though
because she fully recovers from the attacks and goes about a normal
routine until the next flare up. She does not have the daily pain of
chronic amd I pray that hers will not turn into a chronic issue.
During her last episode, she was in the hospital for 6 weeks and went
home with a PICC line installed to continue nutrition. She kept the
PICC line for an additional 3 weeks. This was the longest she had
ever gone without solid food (total approx 9 weeks), however once she
was able to tolerate eating, she regained her appitite and everything
went back to normal. The body is amazing (someday's that is a good
thing, others a bad thing). Today, Amanda is doing great and pain
free. She will have an occasional bad day and is also prone to
migranes, but all in all, can function as a normal kid.
I hope you have a good doctor who understands the pain your husband
is having to endure. He is so lucky to have you there with him. I
will say a prayer for you both and please feel free to post anytime
you need someone to lean on or vent to!
Rhonda
Tulsa, OK
Hello {{{{{{{{{{{Everyone}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}
Found this abstract about surgical treatment of acute pancreatitis on PubMed
from the Current Treatment Options in Gastroenterol. 2003 Oct;6(5):359-367
Surgical Treatment of Acute Pancreatitis.
Werner J, Uhl W, Buchler MW.
Department of General and Visceral Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Im
Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
Waldemar_Uhl@...
Patients with predicted severe necrotizing pancreatitis as diagnosed by
C-reactive protein (
should be managed in the intensive care unit. Prophylactic broad-spectrum
antibiotics reduce infection rates and survival in severe necrotizing
pancreatitis. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic
sphincterotomy is a causative therapy for gallstone pancreatitis with impacted
stones, biliary sepsis, or obstructive jaundice. Fine needle aspiration for
bacteriology should be performed to differentiate between sterile and infected
pancreatic necrosis in patients with sepsis syndrome. Infected pancreatic
necrosis in patients with clinical signs and symptoms of sepsis is an indication
for surgery. Patients with sterile pancreatic necrosis should be managed
conservatively. Surgery in patients with sterile necrosis may be indicated in
cases of persistent necrotizing pancreatitis and in the rare cases of "fulminant
acute
pancreatitis." Early surgery, within 14 days after onset of the disease, is not
recommended in patients with necrotizing pancreatitis. The surgical approach
should be organ-preserving (debridement/necrosectomy) and combined with a
postoperative management concept that maximizes postoperative evacuation of
retroperitoneal debris and exudate. Minimally invasive surgical procedures have
to be regarded as an experimental approach and should be restricted to
controlled trials. Cholecystectomy should be performed to avoid recurrence of
gallstone-associated acute pancreatitis.
PMID: 12954142 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
ReeAnn M. Betts-Morris - VA
Owner, ThePancreatitisPlace
434-409-7162
HI Denise
I can't wait until we get all the goodies we need for that Banana
pudding thank you very much for sending me the receipt
Have a good day
Bruce
Hello {{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{Everyone}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}
This evening I had a chance to talk to Brenda and received rather distressing
news about Ryan. For those who don't know Brenda and Ryan, Ryan is a 9 year old
who has pnacreatitis and a whole host of other problems. He has already been
through more than 25 surgeries in his short, fragile life. And now he is facing
yet another surgery next Tuesday.
Ryan had the nissen fundoplication surgery to fix a hiatal hernia and
GERD/reflux. Late last week he tore the surgery site and spent several days in
the hospital as a result, needing transfusions, etc. Next Tuesday, he is
scheduled to go through a 2-3 hour surgery to fix the tear and the hiatal hernia
that redeveloped. They will also be changing his central line as the one he has
now has caused a lot of additional problems.
Please, please keep Ryan in your prayers as he faces yet another surgery. And
keep Brenda in them too. Pray that she has the strength to hold up in the up
coming days. It is bad enough that we as adults suffer from this dreadful
disease, can't imagine watching a child going through all that Ryan has endured.
You can see Ryan's pictures on TPP in the Prindle folder. Please take a look as
you remember him and Brenda in your prayers.
ReeAnn M. Betts-Morris - VA
Owner, ThePancreatitisPlace
434-409-7162
thank you Gary, bkstars2000@...
hi Denise, thank you for ur response..havent been diagnosed
diabetic.. taking Hydrocodone and Somas..I have gotten in the group
when im at work finally got a pc at home..now i got support at work
and at home.(my husband has this attitude that im doing myself worse
w/ the support group) an idiot is what i say..sorry had to let that
out..any way we can help each other is all i have...ty again brenda
is there any chat rooms available at this time..in regards to panc.
brenda
Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of ThePancreatitisPlace
Hosted Chat
Wednesday March 3, 2004
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
The next reminder for this event will be sent in 22 hours, 58 minutes.
Event Location: AOL's TPP Chatroom
Notes:
This is a hosted chat in AOLs TPP Chat room. You need AOL or free AIM (www.aim.com) to access this chat. Email or send us a message for the link to the room.
ReeAnn@...
Hi Brenda,
Sorry to hear you feel so bad. The overeating good be due to high
sugars. Are you a diabetic? I know when Robert's sugar is way up, he
can eat everything in the house and still be hungry. And not gain any
weight. Also , some medicines make you eat more, the side affects
sometimes are terrible I know. Please write back and let me know how
you are doing. My thought and prayers are with you.
Denise Hammett~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hi Rita,
I am glad that Beuford did O.K. today with the doctor. Is he still in
the hospital? Spartanburg ? How long has he been just on fluids? Yes,
it is true that children get this desease. It is terrible but true. I
feel for the children cause I see what my husband has been thru all
these years. I pray for each child that she/he will have a pain free
day/night. Also all the caregivers out there. I will say a prayer for
you and Beauford tonight.
Denise Hammett~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Robert thanks for your response..havent been diagnosed w/ diabetes.
but very afraid of getting it since my father had it (but no cp). I
take Hydrocodone and Somas. Thankx again...brenda
Hi Brenda,
The over eating could be a side effect of one of your medicines. If
you were to post them, we could research them letting you know if
they are slightly responsible. I have a targeted drug that may be
doing you this way. Amitripyline or one of its family members. Also
diabetes can make you this way from time to time.
God Bless,
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
roberthammett@...
Denise <mrsroberthammett@...
Thanks for writing me back so soon. You live so close to us. We live
in Spartanburg S.C. I know where York is. So you have 3 children.
Boys or girls? We have 3 daughters, 2 that are married and the 13
year old -thinking she is old enough to be too!!!!You said that
Beauford found out about this only 2 months ago? Well , you have come
to the right place to learn about this desease. We will not mean to
scare him or you, but we will tell you the truth about what
pancreatitis does to you. Like I said, Robert, has been there and
back with it and he WILL post as soon as I let him on the computer.
(haha)I wanted to ask you a question---Does Beauford have diarrhea?
The diarrhea can be related to a pancreatic mass. Chronic
pancreatitis is often associated with diarrhea. Some rare tumors of
the pancreas can also be associated with diarrhea. If the ERCP is
normal and in fact a mass does exist, it means that the mass does not
communicate with the pancreatic duct or the biliary tree. A cystic
lesion is a collection of fluid that is surrounded by a wall of
tissue.70-90% of cystic lesions are pseudocysts. Pancreatic
pseudocysts occur as a result of acute pancreatitis, chronic
pancreatitis or pancreatic trauma. Most doctors will tell you that
the most common causes of acute pancreatitis are alcohol related and
gallstone related. That is not all true. Robert was born with 3
defected genes of C/F and that is what caused his pancreatitis. They
tried to tell him in the begining that it was alcohol and he don't
even drink!!!!
What hospital do you use? Very close to us, just wondering.
Our prayers are with you today and everyday. Welcome to TPP!!!
Denise Hammett~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hi Rita,
Thanks for writing me back so soon. You live so close to us. We live
in Spartanburg S.C. I know where York is. So you have 3 children.
Boys or girls? We have 3 daughters, 2 that are married and the 13
year old -thinking she is old enough to be too!!!!You said that
Beauford found out about this only 2 months ago? Well , you have come
to the right place to learn about this desease. We will not mean to
scare him or you, but we will tell you the truth about what
pancreatitis does to you. Like I said, Robert, has been there and
back with it and he WILL post as soon as I let him on the computer.
(haha)I wanted to ask you a question---Does Beauford have diarrhea?
The diarrhea can be related to a pancreatic mass. Chronic
pancreatitis is often associated with diarrhea. Some rare tumors of
the pancreas can also be associated with diarrhea. If the ERCP is
normal and in fact a mass does exist, it means that the mass does not
communicate with the pancreatic duct or the biliary tree. A cystic
lesion is a collection of fluid that is surrounded by a wall of
tissue.70-90% of cystic lesions are pseudocysts. Pancreatic
pseudocysts occur as a result of acute pancreatitis, chronic
pancreatitis or pancreatic trauma. Most doctors will tell you that
the most common causes of acute pancreatitis are alcohol related and
gallstone related. That is not all true. Robert was born with 3
defected genes of C/F and that is what caused his pancreatitis. They
tried to tell him in the begining that it was alcohol and he don't
even drink!!!!
What hospital do you use? Very close to us, just wondering.
Our prayers are with you today and everyday. Welcome to TPP!!!
Denise Hammett~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Dear ReeAnn,
You are so kind. I really love your baking. Our family enjoyed those
assortment of you sent us. I now see why Gary's feet hang out of the
deep bowls of food you prepare. Finally some snail mail to enjoy the
more finer things in life. Thanks Sis!!!
Love,
Robert and family
A Founding Member of TPP,
Hi Michelle,
How have you been doing? Just thought I would post to you and see
what you have been up to? You told Ree one time that you were a
strawberry girl, well so am I!!!!Good thing about strawberry girls----
-We don't get gray as fast!!!!! Well not in my family---There are 3
of us girls and we all have strawberry hair and we age from 40-56 and
none have gray yet. I have not used any gray remover or anything!!!!I
am 40 by the way hee hee!!!
Did you get the information on CA-19 that my husband sent you? Hope
it helped.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Denise Hammett~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hi Bruce,
Thanks for the email, and here it is. Now there are some versions out
there that are short-cuts and you use packages but if you have NEVER
EVER had Banana Pudding, then you MUST get the BEST!!!!Have Carol
make it for you and I am sure that you will just love it and you will
kiss the cook!!!!
Let me know how it turns out.
Denise Hammett~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
denise@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Rita,
Nice to meet you. My name is Rhonda and my 11 year old daughter
suffers from pancreatitis. I recently found this board and have
found it to be a wonderful place full of caring individuals. It is
expecially nice for me to talk with other caregivers.
I just wanted to say hello!
Rhonda
Tulsa, OK
Hi Rita,
I would like to Welcom you to TPP. I am so to hear taht your husband
has pancreatitis. My husband also has pancreatitis. His name is
Robert and he will come on and meet you as well and answer many
questions that you have. Beauford is very lucky to have you by his
side. Going through this, you need a caregiver by your side.
Sometimes all I can do for Robert is to just be here. Write back and
tell me where you live. Do you have children? Also post ANY questions
that you have and they will be answered. Again Welcome to TPP.
Our Thoughts and Prayers are with you and Beauford.
Denise Hammett~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
My name is Rita and my husband Beauford has pancreatitis. We are so glad to have
found this web site. I can't wait to meet and talk with others that share the
same problems.He has been sick for two months now.He has a cycst on the pancreas
now. He has good days and bad ones.He is still on a feeding line and is now
trying some clear liquids. THe doctors want to wait and see if the cycst will
shrink by its self. So we are just waiting for now. Rita and beauf
Good Morning Denise,
Our weekend went great, very busy, but lots of fun. How about yours?
How is Robert's Grandma doing?
The kids did not place in the top 3 in their competitions, however,
everyone is always a winner and receives a medal for competing. Over
500 competitors were in attendance and just seeing the kids get up
and do their stuff makes me so proud. I would be a nervous wreck to
get up in front of crowds and perform!!
Sunday afternoon Amanda got a terriable headache. This sometimes
happens when she is overly tired or stressed. Tylenol normally
doesn't cut it and I have some naperson on hand that usually just
helps her sleep. She was feeling better on Monday.
I am trying to figure out how to get pictures downloaded. I
obviously am not doing something right! I tried to create a file,
but nothing was happening. I will keep trying. I also need to get
an aol instant message id so I can join one of the chat sessions.
Hope you have a great day.
Rhonda
Hi Rhonda,
How are you doing ? Fine I hope!!! How did the weekend go? Did Amanda
win? Did Alex Win? Did you take pictures? I hope so cause I sure do
want to see them. !!! Hope Amanda is having a pain free day.
God Bless
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hi Bruce,
Thank you so very much for the kind letter regarding Robert's
Grandmother. I also enjoyed talking to you in Chat last night. You
have NEVER EVER had banana pudding----I just can't get over that. I
guess, just being from the south, I expected EVERYBODY knew what it
was!!!! If I post a recipe for banana pudding, do you think Carol
would make it for you. Ask her and I will post it for you. Now, you
can make it sugar free , but for the first time you ever taste it,
Gosh it just has to be the real deal!!!!Oh and check out the No Pecan
Pecan Pie----it IS sugar free and there are no nuts in it, so you can
enjoy --enjoy!!!!!!
Have a very good day and take care of yourself!!!
God Bless
Denise~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Just wanted to update y'all and let ya know that I will be going to
the hospital tomorrow for my surgery. I should be home on Thursday
or Friday and will post when I get a chance. I hope all are pain
free while I am gone. I will be thinking of all of you!
Hugs
Melissa
Thanks,
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
Rhonda,
I believe there is a relationship with headaches and pancreatitis. I
also believe that they greatly increase with some pain medications.
It seems to be a never ending cycle. It is far to much for a child to
endure pancreatitis and the spin-offs it brings. Please inform her
doctor of these problems. They make children's migraine meds that can
be prescribed for her age.
Thanks,
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
A few links on pancreatic cancer, If they are not clickable please
copy and paste this into your browser.
Thanks,
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
CA-19 information on pancreatitic cancer.
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
I was curious of any of you suffer from chronic headaches. Amanda
seems to get really bad headaches and occasional migranes. I was
wondering if there was any relationship to her pancreatitis.
Rhonda
Tulsa, OK
I promised to get some information out on pancreas cancer. I hope
this helps, If you need more after this, Please let me know.
Thanks,
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
Gary,
I appreciate your message and your prayer. Wishing you a good week.
Rhonda
Tulsa, OK
Hi everyone,
I would like to share a recipe for a No Pecan,low-fat,low-sugar Pecan
Pie. I don't have a name for it. I just took my moma's pecan pie
recipe and modified it so Robert could eat it and enjoy---So Bruce
and Ree--here it is and please let me know how it turns out and what
you think of it.
3 eggs or egg subsitute
1 cup lite corn syrup
I pack of granulated frucose sweetener (I use Estee)
1/3 cup low-fat margarine, melted
1 tsp vanilla
3/4 cup coconut
1/2 cup quick-cooking rolled oats
For filling, in a mixing bowl beat eggs lightly with a rotary beater
or a fork till combined. Stir in corn syrup, sweetener, and vanilla.
Stir well. Stir in coconut and oats.
Place a pastry-lined 9-inch pie plate on the oven rack. Pour the
filling into the pastry-lined pie plate. Cover edge of pie with foil.
Bake in a 350 degree oven for 25 minutes.
Remove foil; bake for 20 to 25 minutes more or till a knife inserted
near the center comes out clean. Cool pie on a wire rack. Cover and
chill to store. Makes 8 servings.
I might mention that if you actually like pecans or other nuts on
your pie here are a couple of other variations.
Maple Pecan Pie: Prepare as above, except substitute maple syrup or
maple-flavored syrup for the corn syrup.
Peanut Pie: Prepare as above, except substitute coarsely chopped
peanuts, macadamia nuts, or cashews for the pecans.
Pecan Pie: Prepare as above, except substitute pecan halves. Believe
it or not, they do rise to the top of the pie!
Denise Hammett~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hey Eevey One
Well Spring is just around the corner now, maybe it's time to do
something for us to avoid Caregivers Burn Out. It has been a hard
and cold winter for our loves ones and us as caregivers. So why not
break away form the role as a caregiver, if for just a few hours.
Take a walk, catch a movie, or call a friend and have lunch
together. Then end off the day with a long hot candle light bubble
bath. .
I know that some of these suggestions my not work for you, but
maybe one or two of them down the road may, that's all I can I hope
for. We as caregivers need take care of ourselves and our well being.
If I may I would like to end this post with a simple prayer.
Our Heavenly Father I pray that you watch over our caregivers and
give them the strength they need to care for their love once. I pray
that you bless them as you have blessed me. I remember the night I
fell to my knees and prayed. I can't take it anymore, I give up. I
surrender my life to you that night. You did come back into my life,
with your help I was able to overcome the hard time that lay ahead of
me. I pray that you do the same for our caregivers and family
members alike. Show them what you have shown me. Let them know we
are not along here.
In your name, Our Heavenly Father, I make this simple request.
God Bless our caregivers, our special moms and our love ones who
suffer with this horrible illness to find peace, happiness and
comfort in their life.
Gary
Gary Morris ~ Virginia
Customer Service Rep moderator.
Phone 434-490-7191
gary@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Hi Denise,
I am so sorry to hear about Grandma Hammett. I hope this doesn't
upset Robert's progress to much and that he carries on getting
better, you both are in my thoughts and prayers.
Take care
Vicky (UK)
Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of ThePancreatitisPlace
Hosted Chat - ReeAnn
Sunday February 29, 2004
8:00 pm - 10:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
The next reminder for this event will be sent in 23 hours, 4 minutes.
Event Location: AOL's TPP Chat room
Notes:
ReeAnn ~ CoOwner will host a chat in AOLs TPP Chat room. You will need AOL or free AIM (www.aim.com) to access this Chat room. Please email us for the link.
DeniseHallock@...
MsReeAnnBetts@...
Hi Everyone,
We just received some bad news. Grandma Hammett,96 years young!!!She
had a gallstone go through her bile duct and did damage to her
pancreas. This is not good news, she just had a congestive heart
failure and we were already worried about that. She is the sweetest
Grandma you could ever ask for. She has a good sense of
humor,,,hummmm wonder where Robert gets it from!!?? I know everybody
has allot to do , but if you could just take a few moments out of
your day and pray for her, I would really appreciate it. Robert would
too. Just has hit him so hard about her, it was easier for me to
post.
Thanks a bunch
Denise Hammett~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
This is some of the latest research being done on diabetes.
Thanks,
Robert
A Founding Member of TPP,
Karen,
I too have H.P. and also have 2 sons,brothres,cousins,and on
and on. The only way they can really see how your pancreas is
damaged any more then it is, is with a ERCP. I have even had surgery
through a ERCP, they can go down and put a stint in you.
We have a Dr. doing a study on ours and has traced it back to
my fourth great grandmother. She was French and I guess it was very
common in the French at that time. She married into my family and
thats where we picked up the gene.
The ducts running through our pancreas are very small,tiny,
when they are not to be that small. I have a cousin who had a
Pancreatic-By-Pass done in the late 70's and the first to have this
kind of surgery in our family. She had it done in Cleveland,Ohio.
Mine was next in 1983, at the Toledo Hospital in Toledo,Ohio.
Mine was the first ever in our city. I was in surgery for 6 hrs. and
hospital a month and a half.
Sense then I have had many ERCP'S done to see what kind of
condition the Pancreas is in.The Dr's. have found out the sooner we
have the surgery, the less attacks,and so the less damage to your
Pancreas. My 22 yr. old son had surgery in 2000 and has not had
hardley a problem at all. My 15 yr. old son is due the next time he
ends up in the hospital with an attack.
All of our family members who do have this nasty disease react
to it in all diff. ways. Mine and my cousin who had surgery and my
15 yr. olds, seem to be the worst of any of the others.
I now do have a Morphine pump for pain and am on all kinds of
meds that our messing my life up. I'm also on disability. Very
depressing. I pray everyday that no one else in the family's will
get as bad.
And the ERCP's which are not very comfortable,can tell the Dr.
exactly what stage and damage your pancreas is in. Luckly mine is
not in the tail yet, the head is completely gone, but they do tell
me it has started to spread to the tail,and when it does I will be
diabetic.
So the ERCP'S are very informational nad may just cause you to
have no more damage to your Pancreas then you have already had. But
that's not for us to control.
I pray all the time and thinking about becoming an active
catholic again. Who Knows!
Good Luck,
Laura Kerste in Toledo, Ohio
Hi Louie,
I just wanted to meet you. Have heard such nice things about you from
my husband, Robert. I started posting a while back when he got real
sick, and loved TPP so much I became a member too. This is the
greatest group. Whenever you are feeling down , just come to TPP and
your friends will cheer you up!!!Espically ReeAnn. She is the best!!!
She adopted me as her sister and Robert as her brother!!!
Robert wants to know how you are doing these days. He don't have his
medtronic pain pump turned on anymore---in 2 years. And he don't use
any pain meds. Only inslin and Creon 20.The briddle diabetes is the
bad thing right now. But I must admit---things have been a whole lot
better with his sugar since he got out of the hospital a few weeks
ago. When he went in - his sugar was 928 and he had complete kidney
failure. And only weighed 104 lbs!!! He was also dehydrated. That
first night was the longest night!!!!But TPP was praying for him and
everyone else was too and he came thru!!!Thank God!!!He is doing much
better, sugars are good, they still go high to low, but not as often.
The swelling is bad though, We told the doctor about the swelling and
the doctor said it was from the kidneys. He trys to keep his feet up
as much as possible. Oh, I am talking your ears off(heehee). I hope
you write me back and we get to meet.Until then...
Denise Hammett~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Wow we will be having surgery at the same time on the same day!
Jenise you will be in my prayers for sure!
Hugs and Love
Melissa
ReeAnn,
If you happen to talk to Jenise before she has her surgery, please tell her
from me Best Wishes for a complete Pain-Free recovery and I will certainly
keep her in my prayers.
Take Care,
Louie in Wv
Dear ReeAnn,
Your welcome for the info about the pain pump. I glad to see that your
finally feeling better. Good luck with the upcoming doctors apts. Would
you mind sending me your private e-mail address, or would it be ok if I call
you directly. I haven't been online for most of the week, as I having a
major attack, which I having a had time getting under control. Even with
the re-adjustment of my medicines. I very confused on what's going on here
and would like to talk or e-mail you directly to see if I have done
something wrong.
Take Care,
Louie in WV
Hello {{{{{{{{{{{{{{Everyone}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}
I received the following from Jenise. Please keep her in your prayers as she
faces this surgery. I will keep everyone informed as I get updates from her.
Talk about hectic. My head is swirling! I have had countless
hospitalizations since my last email and my mother in law lost her battle with
Cancer and passed away. Anyhow I wanted to let you know that on March 2nd I am
having my Total Pancreatectomy and Islet Cell transfer FINALLY!!! 7:30 in the
morning. I will try to keep you updated.
Jenise
ReeAnn M. Betts-Morris - VA
Owner, ThePancreatitisPlace
434-409-7162
Hi ReeAnn and thanks to you too for the welcome. I did indeed do the
fecal fat test...the first time it came up positive for fat and the
second time negative...but at that time i was barely eating any fat
and was told it could be a false negative. So right now I have
another order slip to do it a third time, but I can see for myself
that there is still fat there.
We're not to the point of scheduling ERCP yet. My doctor wants the
results of the fecal fat test before he even sits down to discuss the
possibility of doing it. He is hesitant to and so am I so I think I
will put it off for now.
As for how this started for me and what tests I've had...well, this
started in January 2003. I had a terrible attack and, having had
something similar when I was about 20 once or twice which never
happened again, I assumed it would go away. I was under huge amounts
of stress because I was unemployed so I chalked it up to
that...perhaps an ulcer. Well, it happened again and again so I
finally saw a doctor after a few weeks. That was my forst doctor who
did an Endoscopy, thinking I had an ulcer, and found nothing. He
then did a Cat Scan and found nothing. Then he told me there was
nothing more he could do for me. So since i was still having attacks
which seemed to be worse when I ate fat or got full...had to stick
with small meals...I went to a second doctor. He ran an MRCP and
found nothing. Also did the fecal fat which came up positive. And
all along I had blood tests which showed an only slightly elevated
lipase leval...but it was a little bit elevated so they kept sticking
on that fact having little else to go on. I then had a Decida Scan
on my gall bladder. That doctor thought i had gall stones which were
creating pain in my pancreas...my pain is mostly left sided with one
sharp pain near my upper ribs and terrible gnawing pain which came
after meals. But that test showed normal function and there were no
gall stones on the MRCP. I was put on Creon 10 and ended up with
worse pain from that...strong abdominal pain...so I was taken off of
it. That doctor seemed stumped and began to stop returning calls and
had a nurse call me to tell me I had chronic pancreatitis, but
provided no further help. So I was on to my third doctor. This one
was a pancreatic specialist at Jefferson University Hospital in
Philadelphia. He assured me i was in the right place but said he
could not make a diagnosis of Chronic Pancreatitis. I had another
MRCP which was normal and more blood tests...we're now into last
fall...my blood tests were now showing normal Lipase. I was put on
another pancreatic enzyme along with Nexium. I ended up having the
two worst attacks I had ever had and was in such excrutiating pain I
had to be taken to the ER. They ran a Cat Scan and that was normal.
My doc took me off of the Enzymes and the terrible attacks stopped,
but I went back to my normal smaller attacks and could still tell I
had malabsorption. So that is where I stand now. I was 131 pounds
last January and now I struggle to maintain 110. I cannot work since
I never know when an attack will come and lost my last job since i
was out so much. My doctor, as I said, is now saying we MAY have to
sit down and discuss ERCP but he is hesitant and says he cannot make
a diagnosis of Chronic Pancreatitis but with all the other tests I
have had, we ruled out everything else he could think of.
So that is my very long story. I'm sure I left out some tests but
that's most of it. This is all very frustrating and my hope that
whatever this was would just go away seems to be gone. Yet I can't
receive any treatment since pancreatic enzymes make me sick and no
one can see anything on scans to diagnose me. I don't know what to
think but worry about the kind of life I'll be able to live.
As I said, I appreciate everyone's kindness and if you have any
advice, feel free. I really have no one to give me advice since I
don't know anyone with this and the doctors don't even know if i have
it. Very stressful. Eating and trying to keep my weight up is my
mission in life right now but some advice would be appreciated if you
have any.
Thanks so much and I hope you're doing well.
Sincerely,
Hi Laura,
I was reading thru the post and came across this one and even though
it not addressed to me, I would like to respond a little, if you
don't mind.
My husband, Robert,could not get a pancreas transplant either. We
got a call from a doctor at UNC asking for Robert to come down and
participate in a research linking C/F to pancreastis. They found out
that Robert had been born with 3 defective C/F genes and they had
damaged his pancreas, instead of his lungs!!!They removed 2/3 of his
pancreas and told him that the remaining 1/3 was so deterated, it was
not much use. That was in 1992. Since then he has had a terrible time
with his pancreas. So much pain. And yes he has became a briddle
diabetic. They told us that he would. We have to keep a very close
watch on it. He was just in the hospital ( a few weeks ago) with BS
at 928. It will shoot high then crash down. But we have been getting
better results the past few weeks from it.They changed the amount of
insulin and he is doing much better, Thank God!!! I understand you
fustration, cause I begged for them to give Robert a transplant, but
they said that the C/F would just damage the new pancreas. It was not
what we wanted to hear, but it was what was happening. Not fair to
anybody!!! But as you know- we have to go on, and deal with it the
best we can.
We were also faced with family/friends who had just got 'used 'to
Robert being sick and then getting better, they just didn't know what
was going on with his body.
Its a very ugly desease Laura and I am so sorry that you are going
thru all this. I will pray for you and keep you in my thoughts. I
really don't know if I have helped or not, just wrote what was in my
mind. Robert will get on in a little while(when he feels better) and
give you some more info into this. He knows first hand. All I know is
what I see him go thru, I don't actually feel the pain, but I sure do
feel it in my heart. Sorry to write so much, I know you are probadly
tired of reading by now, but it was nice talking to you.
Take care and remember TPP is here for you!!!
Denise Hammett~S.C.
Caregivers Moderator
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/
Denise,
Your poem is beautiful! I cannot wait to share with Amanda later.
Thanks for telling me about the photo section. I will definitely
post some of Amanda. What a great way to put faces with names.
Our house is full of excitement for the weekend. It was great,
everyone hopped out of bed this morning for school. What a pleasant
surprise for me!!
How about you? Did the snow hang around? What is in store for your
weekend?
Rhonda