Transplant Tales: to China and back

2008-12-10T01:15:00.000-08:00

IN LOVING MEMORY

ERIC G. DE LEON

APRIL 20, 1955 - SEPTEMBER 22, 2008

************************************************

We Can’t Believe You’re Gone

Dad, our sadness knows no end;

We can’t believe you’re gone;

We’re grieving for you every day;

It’s hard to carry on.

You were always there to support and care,

When we needed a true friend,

How we’ll ever do without our dad,

We cannot comprehend.

You were our teacher and our guide,

Our dad, so good and strong;

Your example will sustain us now,

And last our whole lives long.

We’re trying to communicate;

We hope that you can hear;

Expressing what we feel for you,

Helps us feel you’re near.

Our memories of the times we had

Help the pain to go away.

But Dad, our lives won’t be the same;

We’ll miss you every day.

A part of us went with you;

You left a gap too big to fill;

You’re our father and our hero;

We love you and we always will.

By Joanna Fuchs

**************************************

Eric will be in our hearts forever. Over the years he has touched so many people in so many ways. Eric with no doubt was a fighter and willing to take on any battle that confronted him. He has instilled in his six children those same qualities and more. Eric, you are missed greatly.

2008-06-15T14:19:00.000-07:00

Hello All,

I am very sorry I have not posted in so long. I have just been trying to keep it all together.
I am now back to work (thank God) I must have sent out 100 resumes since January 08.
Don't get me wrong I love being off with my children, but disability is not enough to live on, all annuity's, pension's and savings are gone, so off to work I go I hope I can keep it up.

The divorce is final, the last few months were very trying!
I also experienced a couple of week's of extreme abdominal pain I thought might be the cancer, It turned out, (by no help from doctors) that when I was in China for my transplant they were unable to put the gallbladder in me. So I should have been on a special diet, thanks so much U.S. doctors for not reading the post transplant manuscript from the Chinese doctor's.
So no more bacon, greasy foods, cheese thing's like that.

I still get many people corresponding with me re: transplants for themselves or there loved one's and the most common question is how to go to China to do it, and unfortunately I have to tell them that China has halted all foreign transplants, but there are still option's, anyone needing help should contact me either here or my personal e-mail eric_g_deleon@sbcglobal.net

The kid's are on summer vacation now and are well we are going to do all we can to have fun with each other this summer.

I will try to post more often in the future

2008-03-18T09:33:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

I hope everyone is doing well.
Well Easter is almost here and sooner than most, the last time it was this early was in 1865 and the next time it will be early will be in 224 years. More useless info.

Chuck P. I tried to email you re: your friend with the similar situation as mine and was unable to get through, can you email me directly at eric_g_deleon@sbcglobal.net ?
Also for anyone else out there, China has stopped all foreign transplants, don't give up, I have been in contact with a patient who is in another country for his transplant, and they take medical insurerence from other country's but not the U.S.A. thanks to our AMA . So anyone needing this info please email me separately.

Happy Easter to everyone and have a great year, keep blogging and keep in touch.

Thank you all for your support, and a very special thanks to the unknown donor.

Love
Eric

2008-02-23T17:29:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

I hope all is well, Sam & Dom want me to tell you guy's they are having lot's of fun.
And helping me with this posting, Sam had her 5th birthday party last Sunday, and we had lot's of fun. Dom's birthday is next 04/06, were not shure if we want to go to Malibu or another venue,but we will wet you know. "Good job Dom".

I was invited to be on the Oprah Winfrie show last week. But did not get on due to the other guests that were long winded. Oprah want's me to come back for a show that is more relative to my circumstanses, so we talked and I got some pictures with her.
It was alot of fun.

Everyone stay well, and dont forget to Donate for Life.

Love to all
Eric

2008-02-10T21:33:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

I hope every one is doing well.
I had the CT scan I was telling you about last month and have the result's, the doctor said the liver is the same, the lung's have a little change, not much.
This new's is good, and I will keep a posative attitude.
I am reading a new book, (guess what) The Cure for all Cancers by, Hulda Regehr Clark, Ph.D., N.D. , lot's of letters after her name, she must know somethin hu! Well you know the more info we can gather the more informed we are. It's interesting, and informative and I hope it will lead to something that may help me and other's, I will keep you posted.
The new year is starting off better than the last one ended.

The kid's are doing great, and I am blessed having so much presious time to spend with them, they are groing like weed's, Samantha will be 5 on the 20th of this month, and Dominic will be 7 on the 6th of April. Time fly's dosen't it?

Well it's getting late, and I will stop borring you, just keep in mind , be happy for what you have and appreciate the little thing's.

Keep posative and dont stess, it dose you no good!

God bless you all
Love
Eric

2008-01-01T11:46:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everybody...

Well it's Jan, 1st 2008 and I for one am glad 2007 is gone, overall 07 did not turn out all that well for me. It seemed to me most of the people I spoke with did not have a great year.
I know buissness was slow, at least in the construction area, I must have sent out at least 100 resume's and only got a couple of offers, I got laid off on 6/01/07 and went on SDI untill I landed a job in Sep 9/15/07 which only lasted 4.5 weeks (demo only) and found myself off again in Oct 10/15/07, and it took 8 week's of dealing with SDI to reinstate me on my perminent dissability status, I was allmost on the streets. Realy!
Well with that behind me I am going to keep a posative attitude in 2008 It may start a little slow but I'm shure it will finish with a bang!

The kid's are doing great, and had a wonderful Christmas Dominic is going back to school (St Timothy's) tomorrow 01/02/08 and Samantha is looking forward to starting school in September.

My health is well and I fell great, I will go for a CT scan in Feb, but I can tell you the results, my cancer is going away, so I can live on for another day.

I thank all of for all your support throught these trying times. And may god bless you as he has me.
Also a special thanks to the unknown donor.

P.S.
Dovchik,
I wrote you re: your condition but it didn't go through, I will try another way, but if it does not go, can you write me and explain the (PSC) liver condition I will try to help in any way I can

Have A great 2008 and stay possative, Love you all

Eric De Leon

2007-11-17T16:57:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

I have to apologize for not posting for so long.
As most of you know I am going through a divorce, and am not working right now, so most of my time is spent on sending resumes out and going to mediation's, court,doctors app ts, and raising my children which live primarily with me.

I feel great and my cancer is stable, I still keep my positive attitude no matter what happens I will not give up on my family and friends.

I spoke to an anonymous blogger this afternoon re: his brother whom has liver problems and I hope I was of some help.

I have been on National Geographic Explorer recently and I think it will air again soon, I am trying to find out now, they did not tell me about the airing,I did the interview about 2 months ago.

I am enjoying the time I am spending with my children and hope they will always cherish.
The Moore obstacles I overcome the stronger I become , they say it builds character,well I must be some character, I will not give up!!!!!! And hope others that read this will gain strength to overcome there obstacles.

I try ed a new cancer drug called Nevermar it made my hands and feet peel the skin was just coming off it was a little pain full so I had to stop it. that's OK there are other drugs, if they ever get out of the FDA, I think the most powerful healing is being positive and not being scared.

I write almost everyday " I don't have cancer, I don't have cancer" 100 times it seems to help.
In closing I love you all for all your support and hope you all have happy holiday's, and may god bless you, as he has for me.

Also the book sale's are low, it may make a good gift for someone, the proceeds go into an account for the kid's collage education, in case I am not here, (dought that) .

Love to all
Eric

2007-08-09T14:32:00.000-07:00

Hi everybody,

I hope all is well, I fell outstanding and have been off work since 06/01/07 which is fine because the kids and I have done quite a few road trips this summer.
We went to Oregon to visit my oldest daughter who is almost a dentist 2 more years, I am very proud of her, we had a great time visiting her and her husband and my grand daughter 9 years old.
We have also gone camping at a few lakes and the kids have a great time, they like to sleep in our tents and look into the stars. I have had enough dirt camping trips in my life, I have no desire to sleep on the ground anymore, so our next trip will be close to the Hilton.
We also went to Russian River and stayed with a friend with a cabin, also to lake Tullick where my great friend Gary has a home.
We have had a great summer, Dom will be back in school soon, and the savings is about out so I have to get back to work.
I am very fortunate to have had this time with them and will never forget it ,and them either.

I still maintain my positive attitude and hope you will all do the same! I know the cancer is going away or if not it can stay frozen in there as long as I live but I am positive I will not die of cancer.
So all continue to be positive,remember life will knock you down over and over, just keep getting up, because when you give up your done. De Leon's do not give up!!!!!!

2007-07-10T09:08:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

I hope all is well.

Well the good news first, I had a ct scan about a week ago, and the tumors are shrinking, which is fantastic news for me. I feel great and healthy, I have been on a cloud eversience.
The doctor told me to keep doing whatever I am doing, which is having a posative attitude and not to get depressed.
To the people who write hateful comments, shame on you!!!!
I am going to visit Lucy in the hospital today (she also has cancer) and try to cheer her up and hopefuly give her some posative attitude.
I spoke to my transplant quardenator in China re: transplants and he told me that they shut down forien transplants.

Well I must go for now, please write with your comments.

Thank You All

Eric

2007-06-15T11:45:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

I hope everyone is doing well.
I think you all must know that the book is out now on Amazon.com, and you can look it up by name transplant tales, or by author Eric and Loretta De Leon. There is one other way if you should have trouble, by calling 1866-308-6235 which is there costumer service land line.
So I hope you all get one.

I feel great, except for a slite chest cold, I got golfing last Sunday ,no Moore morning golf.
The kid's are doing great, Dominic starts summer school this Monday , and I am looking for some child care, so if anyone in my area knows of or wants to babysit for about 4 hours a day let me know.

It's bin real.
Keep in touch

Eric

2007-05-30T14:13:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

I hope all of you are well.

Well It's finlay out there in print, the book is available to all of you now .
You can get it by going to Amazon.com click on books and then in the box enter Transplant Tales and you will see it hopefully you will buy one or more

I will set up a book signing soon and will let all of you know when, boy is this exiting!!!!!!
This book would not be possable without the help of Stefanie Smitherum whom I will forever be indeted to, she is a wonderful woman, I thank you Stef.

So be the first on your block to get one while supplyes last, just kidding.

I feel great and its because of positive thinking, I hope it never stops, so all of you with an illness try to be positive.

Love to all

Eric

2007-05-11T09:48:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone I hope all is well.
The housewarming party went great I was happy to see lot's of the old gang there, everyone seemed to have a good time and the food was great, there was very little left , so it must have been good.
I finished an interview yesterday with NBC New's that will air on May 17 2007 at 6:30 P.M. with Brian Williams, I got a chance to plug the book, which by the way you will be able to purchase in approx, 12 days so that's very exiting.
I also have another Interview this month with National Geographic Explorer, and am also speaking with The BBC re: a documentary.
I still feel great and have my energy and color back you know red like my nick name (redman).
Remember that a positive attitude and mind over matter sure does give you a boost, and hopefully kill this cancer.
Well gang a have to go to the dentist to have a tooth extracted (what fun) so I must be going, talk with you soon, and may god bless you all.

Love
Eric

2007-04-26T18:28:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody,

I'm so glad all my old hi school friends made it too my house warming party, and all my other friends also.
Well so far so good, I have a very good felling re: the cancer, sense I stoped the chemo I am very positive it has stoped and am hoping it goes into remission, I have got some other info re: alternatives like Coral, and pectin which i ordered.But I still believe a positive attitude has everything to do with it, I will live for many years to come and will keep helping everyone I can!
Please keep in touch we all need the support, and no stress.
I will let you all know when the book Is out, hopefully 1st week in May.

I love you all stay healthy
Love Eric

2007-04-07T16:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter to all

I hope every one is doing well, and your Easter be a joy full one.
Well Dominic's birthday was yesterday 4/6/ and we had a party at Malibu Grand Prix today and had a wonderful time.All the kid's had a great time.

I received some good news the other day re: my result's from the doctor ,he stated that my condition was stable and there was no growth. So this is very positive,I know that the power of the mind is one of the best healing powers,and of coarse the Lord. Don't forget he is within all of us.
The book is in publishing right now and hope by next week I can tell you to go to Amazon to order one, I only hope that It will help someone someday.

Well it's time for me to go make dinner for the kid's so I will talk to all of you soon, and may God bless you all.

Love
Eric

2007-03-26T01:09:00.000-07:00

Hey bro,

Yes I have the same cell # 238-6203 you know the area code, better if you call me and give me your new e# dont use this avenue.

tanks.

call me

Eric

2007-03-24T17:15:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

I hope everyone is doing well.
You know I have been off the chemo now for approx, 3 months and had a ct done on Tue, 03/21/07 and scheduled a appointment to see the doctor to view the pictures and com pair them in order to evaluate whether or not to go back on chemo.
Well I went to the appointment and again was left in the waiting room for approx 40 min, (this is the 3rd time the doctor has stood me up) I asked for my 15.00 co pay back, they gave it back with another apology. Its not the nurses fault. I was very disappointed but asked them to have him call me with the results of the pictures.
I understand there are others in Moore need then myself, but I am a patent also, so I requested a new doctor,so as to lessen his case load.
Well he did call me back that afternoon and said there was no change in my condition so we agreed we should not do chemo for another 2 months, great news hu!!!!

I think that my positive attitude has allot to do with my condition. I look forward to the coming year, and many Moore, so all of you reading this with cancer think positive!!!!
We must stay mentally healthy in order to beat this.
I hope the medical community will start looking into alternate discovery's in cancers and stop beening so narrow minded.
When I was in China the doctors use Herbalists and whatever else they need to fight this disease.
I have been reading some positive discovery's in medical science, hopefully they wont wait 20 years to let them out.

Depression is one of the hardest things to deal with when going through chemotherapy,maybe if there was Moore support it may help.
If any one needs support please write me I will try to help.

Anyway the kids and I are doing great In our new house, they are very happy and love our new backyard.

Also the book is in publishing and I will let you all no when its actually out.
I say thank you to Stef S. for helping me finish it I owe it all to her.

May God bless you has he has me
Love Eric

2007-03-10T19:49:00.000-08:00

Hey folk's hope every one is doing well.
I agree with one of the anonymous comments that was made,re: airing our laundry, I think we should keep this blog site for what it was intended for.
So I will let you know whats been happening.
I had another TV interview (channel 26 ) on Mon, and spoke to a group of transplant patients at El Camino hospital in Mountain View, It was fun and very enlightening for me.
One man had a liver transplant 19 years ago, another woman had a kidney transplant over 16 years ago. It gave me moor hope, although I have cancer and my time here may be shorter it still is very positive, and positive is what I need in my life, no negativity.
Because I'm going to beat this one way or another.
I stoped my chemo for now about 4 weeks ago, I wanted to monitor the progression of the tomors without chemo, and I feel outstanding, of course if the cancer is moving fast I will go back on it. I dont know how but I feel in my heart that god has a purpose for me and its not my time yet.
I want to help others get through this and maybe this is my purpose.
Well the kids are doing great, we have rented a home close to Dominic's school so he did not have to change.

I look forward to the coming year and feel very positive about it.

I wish to thank all my friends for all there help through this move and divorce, It has been trying, but we are De Leons and we dont quit, not without a fight!
So think positive and never quit.

Peace and love to all
Eric

2007-03-09T08:34:00.000-08:00

What CANCER really does to people

Eric has been dealing with quite a bit, besides his cancer. He saw his doctor earlier in February and was told that he wanted him to start a new Chemo. One dose a week for eight weeks. Has he chose to show up to the treatments? Well this is the 4th week and no he hasn't. He is upset at his doctor for not getting back to him, returning his emails or phone calls. I agree with him on this the doctor is very slow.

Eric wanted to get another CT-Scan to see the progress of his cancer. The doctor, from what Eric tells me, says that he received one in January, and that they only do them every three months. Well. Eric an I got into a bit of a disagreement. I told him that the doctor may be a bit upset with him since he is not showing up to his treatments. How can you agree to something, and then just not show..no canceling..just not show..And then you ask for a CT-scan to see the obvious.

I told him that these are time slots that other Chemo patients could be slotted for.

Eric is talking to me one day and mad at me the next. I have to admit I am feeling the same way. He has been going 100miles per hour, since the move from the house. Complaining that he is feeling tired and run down. I tell him to take a break, but do you think he listens? NO!!

This blog was set up and maintained my me for almost a year. It was originally set up to keep in touch with our family and close friends while we were in Shanghai. It has evolved into something more than that. Eric now creates posts since I began to drop back in October. It wasn't until now that I decided to post again.

To the party that decided to judge me, Unless you have full access into our private lives, and see the true picture of things, please refrain from making such hateful comments.

Our personal life unfortunately became part of this blog the day we create it. As far as mentioning anger, yes, he is angry. Angry at me, the doctors, the cancer, and anyone else that end up in the path that he is taking.

Eric is very powerful in the sense that he can do anything that he puts his mind to. A quality about him I love dearly. No matter how upset we get each other, I am still there supporting, and cheering him on.

2007-02-27T11:07:00.000-08:00

Still Kicking

As many of you have been either told by Eric or read here, that Eric an I have gone our separate ways.

Yes, this is true. We have endured so much over the years and most of our challenges have been these last two years. I am however, very much in the picture. Despite what Eric would like everyone to believe. I have been through rough waters these last two years and by no means abandoned ship.

Our separation was mutual. Eric has a lot of anger along with other issues to work through. I myself need to find me. Somewhere these last few years I lost who I was. Being engulfed in Eric and his illness. I allowed myself to be sacrificed.

Anyone who knows me, knows that I love my husband. Along with that love comes the "good" and the "bad," and I accept that.

The feelings that we share for one another are still very real. The time we still spend together validates that. What does the future hold for us?? Only time will tell. One thing I do know, is that we are becoming better friends.

God Bless

Wife of the Transplant Traveler

2007-02-16T07:25:00.000-08:00

Joann,

I'm sorry for your lose, It must be hard on Jason.
I'll be moving the last of the back yard stuff on Sat, A.M. but will be free in the afternoon if that work's for you it will be great too see you, hope to see ya.

Eric

2007-02-15T09:30:00.000-08:00

Hey Joann,

Great to hear from you, hope everything is going well.
The girls are doing well, Cristina is still in dental collage and has 3 1/2 years left to being a full on dentist, she is a dental hygeanist now and making money.
I dont know if you no she got married a couple of years ago to a very nice guy in dental school also, and his father is a dentist, I'm so proud of her, and of course all my kid's, i'm very blested.
How is your son Jason, give me a call some time so we can talk.

Talk to ya soon

Eric

2007-02-08T09:35:00.000-08:00

Sorry Connie,

I didnt give you my cell, 415-238-6203.

2007-02-08T09:29:00.000-08:00

Hi Connie,

Thank you so much for your concern, I very much appreciate it.
Connie could you call me on my cell so we can talk, also I am unable to respond to anonymous comments on the blog, so i must post if I had you in my address book we could correspond easier.

Thank You
Eric De Leon

2007-02-06T18:23:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,

How's it gone? I hope well.
Well I'm moving into a new frontier, we are selling the house and getting out from under this 4500.00 a month mortgage, what a relief for me, it was not easy I worked day's she worked night's not the best way to spend what ever day's I have left.

I will get my home and she will get her home, and we will save some dough. It will give her a chance to be on her Owen in case the worst happens, don't worry I'm not giving up!!!!!! No way, just another challenge, builds character, right?

Hey If you read Forbes magazine there was an article about us in it, and People has contacted me, and Associated Press has also been in touch, great hue, where is the money????

owe well I hope it will help someone somewhere, I've almost got the book preface done so I can publish, soon.

Well I love you all keep writing I love hearing from all of you, and thank you very much Sheryl I'll never forget that kiss in my garadge when we were 13, love ya always honey.

Peace to all
Eric De Leon

2007-01-29T21:46:00.000-08:00

Hello All,

I hope you are all doing well, I have not been as active as mabye I should but I'm dealing with alot at this time.
The chemo is no fun let me tell you all, it seams to zzzap all the energy out of you and there is nowhere to replenesh the stock.
The good new's is that it seams the embospherars that Dr Kotton injected into my liver seam to have slowed the progreshtion of the tuomor on my liver, but the spots on my lungs are getting a bit larger, also causing some fatiuge and shortness of breath.
I have opted for now to take another break in the chemo for know because of the way it makes me fell (zzzapt) .
I recieved some coments from folks all over and very much appreciate your input thank you all, i am reserching thise options one at a time and trying very hard to follow up on what's best for my conditon.
I know in my heart I must keep a possitave attitude in order to combat this terible desiese, It is difficult, but I will sucseed this cancer will not kill me, it may be something else.
I will fight till my last breath, dont stop fighting!!!!
The key to life is to stay alive, it is not easy to loose 30 lbs and keep getting it back , sometimes not quite enough, but not giving up.
The good lord is within me I know and when it's my time it's my time, I am not afraid when he need's me I will be there to help, this is within all of us ,I want you all to know i have had to fight all my life since 9 years old riding the buse's in S.F. to go to school, how did mom know I would need this training?
They say it build's caricter wow what a caricter I must be!
Well as if thats not enough my wife is having a very hard time with coping with my condition, so it's been desided to sell our home so I dont leave her with ton's of debt, and we need to get out of this super large morgage, I am still working and doing the very best I can I dont know how much Longer I can, but I refuse to let my family down nor my company, whom have been the greates alies a man could ever hope for, these men and woman in this company have suported me through litteraly life and death, without them I dont know if I would have made it, thank you all, Rich Stevens, Victor, Dave, Rich R, Mureal, Katie,Liz,Malinda,Craig,Rob,Juan, Mario, Jeff,Ramone,Jake,Kevin,and all the crews from CCI without you I could not have kept It up.
On the more personal , I thank my family all my adult children Cristina,Desrea,Athena,Andrea and my young ones Dominic, Samantha, also my wonderful wife Lori whom has stod by me through it all,I love you all!!!!!!!

Remember this when the goin gets tough the tough get going, never give up!

2006-12-05T21:08:00.000-08:00

Feeling Normal

Hello everyone! I would like to wish everyone a Happy and Safe Holiday!!

I have taken a back seat for the last couple of months, forcing Eric to update the blog. Hehe, it worked. Eric is doing fine and beginning to feel his energetic, stubborn self!! It has been nice not seeing him do the Chemo and getting back to normal.

Eric hasn't had Chemo for almost a month now. We insisted on this, so he could shake the ill feeling he had not to mention the pneumonia he came down with in the beginning on November. He will be starting the Chemo back up this week, but at a lower dose. Here we go again...well no maybe not. I have my fingers crossed..shhh and my toes.

It's funny I talk to so many people about our quest to survive and change our current US transplant system. Hearing people say they admire Eric an I, for what we did. Well let me point something out. We did nothing different than any other person would do, to live. The only thing that makes us stand out, is that we are willing to talk about our experience. Speak out loud about the unjust process there is regarding the transplant lists. Wanting people to know that the way things are done here in the states, needs to change.

The real story is not us.

The real story is WHY!!

2006-11-28T09:18:00.002-08:00

Hi All,

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving, I know we did.
Let me tell you I have a lot to be thankful for, I'm still here!!!

I have been getting a lot of comments from people asking how to help someone do what I did, and that's fine, If you need specific information please contact me at Eric_g_deleon@sbcglobal.net There is a underscore after the c in Eric and after the g initial.
You can leave your e-mail address there and I alone will get it. It will not be posted on the blog, so try to get me that way I will be happy to help any way I can.

Well I'll be honest with you the chemo is difficult, I got the first 2 injections of chemo and no problem, but the 3rd injection within 1 week I was hurting bad, It's bad stuff. (I was getting these injections every 3 weeks.) So there the Dr. Is going to reduce the amount of chemo so I can keep working, still got to pay bills, (dose it ever end?) .

Well I left a comment for Kev and Kate who are in China now waiting for a transplant, our prayers are with them. You can find them at www.NewLiverforKevin.blogspot.com.

I had an interview with Forbes recently re: fraud in this area ( organ fraud) which is out there , I was unaware of most of this when I went to China, we did get a little skeptical when we were on the web. At that time, but we saw nothing in China to indicate foul play, I was in a university hospital quite large with all the modern equip we have here, they just don't waste money on stupid stuff like digital thermometers, fancy scales to weigh you, fancy offices and waiting rooms. They are very frugal with there money, one would think it was socialized medicine, but it is not.
During my stay, all of the liver transplant patients were of Asian descent except for one gentleman which was Middle eastern and myself.

So the claims by some stating "Rich Americans" are flooding the Chinese transplant hospitals seems a little foolish, and if there were so many going over there how come everyone is calling me to see how to do it?

So I guess I have bent your ears enough, keep writing us we love hearing from you.

2006-11-13T20:37:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,

I hope your all well this holiday season, well it looks like someone has benefited from the website, I spoke to ma took a wile back re: her nephew Kevin they were having trouble getting the right direction in getting a transplant, I'm so happy there on there way and keeping life will be extended and hopefully long and prosperous, best wishes Kevin.

Also Steve Around the corner will benefit, It's great .
If we all stick together and pool our minds together and get our family and friends together and involved together we can beat this , and ultimately find a cure!

Keep bloging this is a global issue like everything is now a days. Its up to us the people of this planet who are in control of our own destiny, lets talk come on get it out there that's how we find solutions.

Well as I have been telling all of you the book is done but I'm having some trouble , wondering if you will like it . I made it informative as I know how to, trying to keep it lite .
I want to go for it, but unfoutunatly we are a little taped right now, and getting it published is an expense that's not a priority right now.

Hey to my partners out there

you know who you are.

If heaven for bid I don't make it very long , don't forget the widows and orphans fund, Ill rest easy knowing my partners are taking care of them.

Thanks to everyone for all your support, it will never be forgot.

Lets all who visit this site leave a brief story which may help others.

So for now stay positive love to all

So if any one out there wants to help, you can I figured if I got 1 cent from every one in the U.S.A. I think that would do it. Ha, Ha, Ha,

2006-11-11T14:50:00.000-08:00

WE ARE STILL HERE!!

The month of October has been a very trying month for us. Eric began his Chemo in September with minimal side effects. But, October was not so easy. He got a bit of a cold and then got a another dose of Chemo. From there he went down hill a bit. We made the emergency room a weekly routine visit. If it wasn't for dehydration it was for a fever of 105 degrees. We found out on Halloween that he had acquired a bit of pneumonia and his white and red cells were both very low.

Eric has made the decision that he has enough Chemo..At least for right now. I am glad to see that he is finally feeling better. His energy and appetite are finally returning, after about 3 weeks very little food and 35lbs lighter. Yes, the weight loss was that severe. I chuckled yesterday when we drove from place to place to find an Italian restaurant that was open, and serving Raviolis.

Hopefully, We can fatten him up between now and Thanksgiving. I will be heading into surgery myself on Monday, for something minor. I will off my feet for a few days. But I will be ready for making the best Thanksgiving every at home!!

I will have Eric post in the next couple of days..This past month of silence was unforeseen.

2006-09-30T17:29:00.000-07:00

Hey all,
For Richard:Thank you for your interest, It's appreciated I do have something you may be able to help with, I will email you personals, thank you Rich.
For Ma Tootsie:I'M so sorry to hear of your nephew's conditionally cares if they get turned off,for one I have not seen any evidence to support these claims, only media hype I stated before I saw no evidence of cruelty to anyone, also I was the only American on the transplant floor, there were 8 other patients on the floor, all Asian,so there doing transplants on there own people also there given transplants based on the severity of the condition.
don't get me wrong I'm not promoting going to China for transplants, I did what I had to do to stay alive!
It's to bad the fund raising people are so narrow minded, but how about this, could you set up a bloc page for him, and set it up so people can donate online, I would be happy to be the first one to donate.
Well if anyone didn't see the latest interview that was on Sun. 09/22/06 at 7:00 here is the e-mail address you can pull up yourself.

www.californiaconnected.org/tv/archives/483
After you get there click on the story The Wait For Life.

It is a vary informative interview, you will see just how unfair the system is!

Im still taking all my supplements every couple of hours everyday, this may be the reason I don't get sick when they give me the chemo.
And still have lot's of energy, I'm going to beat this cancer one way or another!!!!!!!
positive thinking that's half the battle, never give up!!

Ma Tootsie,
As I stated I would be happy to help somehow, If you reply with your email then I will contact you personally..thank you.

2006-09-21T09:33:00.000-07:00

6 Months Since the Transplant

During the past 3 weeks Eric has done a lot. He began Systemic Chemo (traditional) via IV. Amazingly enough, he has had very little side effect. He was tired that evening of treatment and then felt great the next day.

As Eric shared in his last blog post, the CT scan in August showed a 5cm tumor that has developed in his new liver. Yes, the cancer has reinfected it. Apparently, this tumor was on the July CT scan but was, either not noticed or just not told to us. However, comparing the 2 CT scans which are 4 weeks apart, it is obvious that this tumor is quite aggressive. Growing more than 4 times in size in 4 weeks. With this aggressiveness it was clear that we needed to be doing more than this traditional Chemo. We suggested doing an Embylization to block the blood supply to the tumor. One oncologist wasn't to keen on the idea, but Eric's post transplant doctor at UCSF was agreeing that we needed to do something about the liver tumor. Since it was in a position to cause liver failure than the lung tumors that seem to be just hanging out.

So know I am actually sitting here at the hospital as I type. Waiting for Eric to come out of the procedure room. Of course there is risk in doing this procedure, as with anything there are levels of risk. We are optimistic that he will complete this with no issues. Just like everything else he has endured.

It's strange. Someone mention to me the other day, that we are fortunate to know so much. By knowing so much about this Liver Cancer and various procedures and treatments. It has managed to give us a voice on how we want to proceed with treatment. Without it, I would have no clue of what to ask and would end up completely relying on one doctors suggestions. I guess you could say We've been around this block.

Oh and one last thing to mention. Tomorrow night, September 22,2006, there will be a show called California Connection, televised be PBS. You will need to check your local channels to find the time in your area. I do know here in the bay area it on KQED at 7pm. Eric, had an interview back in July with them and they are finally airing it. Should be quite interesting. The show is discussing our US medical industry and the transplant waiting lists.

Enjoy the show and again Thank you to everyone for their support.
Lori De Leon

2006-08-31T09:02:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

I apologies for not posting sooner,I am limited with my skills on the computer , but I am learning more every day.
Well the treatment I went through in Santa Barbara with the Issels center did not work. They tried, but It seemed to elevate my AFPs to triple what they were before I went, also there is another tumor on my new liver.
No worries were not quitting,well beat It. I have already started another treatment with supplements. You have to understand my condition Is unique because having a transplant I have to take anti rejection drugs(immunosupresant) so if we ramp up my immune system to much my body will attack my new liver, so we must balance very carefully. I have been told by my Drs to start chemo, which I will do very soon, and the supplements will work In conjunction.
I am positive we can reduce this cancer or eliminate It, never give up that's my moto.
My family and friends have been super supportive, I love you all, special thanks to Paul Kerrigan for his support.

To a friend from China:
re: Falun Gong practitioners
I don't want to get into the political aspect of this, I did not see or here of any of the statements that have been brought up re: Falun Gong.
I looked up both web sites you left me there not there?
I would be cures to find out where all this info comes from, or is this more media hype.
And lets not forget the Chinese people need organs to I was the only Anglo in the hospital.
There were 8 other transplant patents where I was, and thousands more people In the hospital, It was so crowded there there was a line for every test. They are helping there own people and saving lives.

To all the cancer victims
think positive never give up!!!!
Love to all

2006-08-19T19:07:00.000-07:00

159 A.T.

Eric returned back from Santa Barbara looking and feeling great. Although, as of the August 4th, blood work, his AFP was showing 35,000. The AFP had tripled since he started the detox treatment. One good thing has come of these past 3 weeks. He has definitely benefited from this Issels Treatment Center, when it comes to better eating habits. We have converted to "ORGANIC" fruits and veggies, Gluten Free foods, and the best part, we have started a garden. Not just your typical dirt garden, that would be to easy. We have started a Hydroponic garden. Eric seems to think the wave of the future will be home gardening.

By doing hydroponics you can control the nutrients and oxygen you plants get. This also assists with the control of pests. We've got 20 plants going right now, with just one week under our belt the plants have almost doubled. With signs of tomatoes and bell peppers in the next couple of weeks. We will be eating great. Eric built a green house to house this wonderful plants and I have given him his next project, another hydroponic set up for 30 plants! I really did not think I would have gotten so excited abou this but I am. I guess you could call it, good therapy for Eric and myself.

Eric has returned back to work this last week. He said the job seemed as if it was at a halt while he was gone. Now it's back to business. Eric got a phone call from a rep with Wells Fargo Bank, wanting to know if he would share his story with them. Sounds like good PR.

Eric has a CT scan on Monday, August 21st and then an appointment with his Oncologist Tuesday, August 22nd. We will find out were his AFP is and what options if any we have. We will post an update next week.

Thanks to everyone for everything!

Keep Blogging!

2006-08-06T11:48:00.000-07:00

146 A.T.

Eric is getting ready to go back to Santa Barbara for his last week of treatment. He has lost about 10lbs since he started. He looks better than ever.

The treatment consists of receiving vitamins and minerals interveniously, Organic menu and absolutely no sugars!! He is also receiving Heyperberic treatments which consists of laying in a pressurized tank and receiving oxygen, to oxygenate his cells. Another treatment he does is the Therma Bed, which heats his body to appoximately 165 degrees by UV. This is to create an environment too hot for bacteria to live in. This is all done once a day for one hour.
Throughout this treatment Eric does routine coffee enemas and weekly colonics, recommended for anyone you think is full of crap!

He has altered his habits tremendously. We are all eating healthier due to this. The key objective was to rebalance and detoxify your body and allow it to naturally fight as it is meant to.

After this last week of treatment Eric will get a CT scan of the lungs and we will see if there has been any positive effect. The Hep C is still there and we'll check on that as well.

2006-07-28T17:27:00.000-07:00

137 A.T.

How has it been a month already?? We are so sorry for not updating. So many things have occurred in this last month.

For starters, many of you have been wondering about Eric's Lungs. Well, they are secondary liver cancer lesions. The lesions as of the 17th of July were 1.5cm in size each of them. Instead of beginning Chemo, he has decided to take a Holistic approach while he still feels healthy and well. He begun treatment at a clinic in Santa Barbara, called The Issels Treatment Center. They take the approach of all organic, body detox and balancing the body's PH balance.

http://www.issels.com

Eric has completed 1 week of the 3 week program. He has just got home for the weekend and looks great! This is challenging, especially with the major change in his life style and daily habits.

2006-07-03T22:51:00.000-07:00

111 A.T.

Happy 4th of July!!!

We are enjoying a quiet weekend at home. Nothing exciting to report, except for, Eric see the Oncologist on the 6th. Hopefully we can get some answers on what course of action we need to take if any.

Eric has finished up the draft of his book. We will be sending it in to the publisher for editing. When it is finally all finished, I am sure some will find it as good reading.

Before I finish, let me say Thank You to everyone for the caring words and support. To the publisher of the most recent comment, Thank You. We know that American Vampire article in the Chronicle back in April was very vicious. Just keep in mind Ms. Saunders is an Opinion Columnist. I have responded to her article and have never received a reply. She obviously does not care to share the total truth and fact about my husband and the situation. Just her twisted version for her readers. If anyone hasn't read it check out the link.

http:///www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2006/04/25/EDGNSGUC3N1.DTL&hw=eric+de+leon&sn=002&sc=763

2006-06-27T00:12:00.000-07:00

104 A.T.

It has been 3 months since the transplant and so far so good. Eric's over all health is great. All lab test show that the liver function is fantastic. The Doctors have began to taper down some of the anti rejection medications. Eric has an appointment tomorrow with UCSF, a normal post transplant appointment.

The recent MRI shows no sign of cancer, despite previous concern. Eric did have a CT scan done on the chest. What was seen was a couple suspicious spots. However we are told the spots are to small to do anything about at the moment. They have neither confirmed or ruled out that these spots are cancer.

Either way we have pursued seeing the Oncologist to discuss options. We have learned a lot this last year that, we need to be the aggressor not the cancer.

I catch myself getting discouraged occasionally, especially when we heard it may have returned. But I have to remind myself that we need to stay focused and continue living life to the fullest. Eric still remains strong and full of life an energy. I can only imagine what goes through his mind. One thing is for sure, through this last year an even now, I have grown to truly admire Eric for his will and determination to live.

Eric, I Love You!

2006-06-16T10:45:00.000-07:00

94 A.T.

Last night Anderson Cooper 360, aired their interview on Eric and his story. All in all, I think it was very tastefully.

http://www.cnn.com/CNN/Programs/anderson.cooper.360/blog/2006/06/ailing-americans-seek-chinese-organs.html

Check it out, see what you think.

It asked the same question as we did before. WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

2006-06-13T06:57:00.000-07:00

91 A.T.

We had a wonderful weekend. We took off after Eric's CT scan of him lungs, yes, another one. And went up to Lake Berryessa for a 3 day weekend. The weather was great and the lake was fairly quiet.

We took the boat out and did a little tubing. I think Eric enjoyed throwing me. He did a few circles an I hit one of the wakes and ended with about 4 feet of air. Needless to say I am a little sore. I came down pretty hard. We also got Samantha out on the donut she loved it.

Dominic was the more causes one.

All in all the weekend was well worth it and quite needed. Eric has done a number of tests in the last couple of weeks. UCSF has adjusted one of his anti rejection medications again. They have also said that they have submitted a request to our Doctor at Kaiser for another Bone scan or a PET scan. Since Eric's AFP is on the rise last weeks test showed 3460, higher than the last test. In other words they are saying the cancer is back but they haven't found it yet. I hope they do the PET scan, I think that would end the goose chase.

OH, another exciting note. CNN's Anderson Cooper will be televising the interview of Eric and myself this coming Thursday June 15th. Check it out!

2006-06-04T20:40:00.000-07:00

82 A.T.

Wow, we are so sorry for not writing. It's been almost 3 weeks since our last posting. Eric did go in and have his CT scans done. Chest, abdomen, and pelvic. We received a call from the DR. Informing us that nothing was seen in liver. That was a great relief. They did however see to spots on the lungs. They could not determine though if it was cancer or water spots. Eric was scheduled to go in and have an MRI as a follow up. There must have been some goof up 'cause they only did an MRI for the liver. I have it on the top of my list tomorrow to call and get him in again for the chest. So, we'll see how that goes.

We saw the Doctors at UCSF as a routine post transplant appointment. While we were talking with the Doctors we started on the discussion of recurrence. They told us that if the cancer did not return in five years. Then we could declare victory. I responded that we didn't need to wait five years. Since March 15th, everyday has been a victory!!

We took the boat out on the bay last weekend. The weather was great and had so much fun we have decided to head off to Lake Berryessa next weekend for more boating fun.

I promise that you will see atleast one posting a week. No more leaving you all hanging.

2006-05-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

64 A.T.

Eric celebrated 2 months with his liver transplant. We went and saw the liver surgeon at UCSF an again they commented on how well he looked. We asked about his medications and the insulin shots. His blood sugar is looking good so they had us taper down the shots to 1 shot in the morning.

We also spoke to the doctor again about preventive Chemo, like the Chinese doctors have recommended. There again the UCSF surgeon said, they don't recommend doing preventive chemo. Stating that the down side with treatment out weigh the upside. So here again preventive care is out the window. The surgeon stated we can declare victory if the cancer does not reoccur before then. I commented that everyday right now is victory!

Just when we thought thing were going good. We did receive a call from his GI doctor that afternoon informing us that his AFP levels were climbing again. This is not a good sign.

Eric had an CT scan today, we should find out something Monday or Tuesday. We will keep everyone posted.

2006-05-12T06:03:00.000-07:00

58 A.T.
Current events yet show another reason Americans turn to transplants abroad. Kaiser Permanente in San Francisco is now under investigation, for the foul up of their Kidney transplant program. For anyone who is familiar with the HMO, you know that they stand firm on what they outsourcing and do themselves. They publicly apologized for the current situation and stated, if there where any Kidney Transplant patients that preferred to go through a different transplant center. Kaiser would authorize and pay for that treatment. Reports show only 26 kidney transplants were performed in 2005 at Kaiser San Francisco. That's about 2 a month. Meanwhile over 50 Kaiser members died waiting.

What is wrong with that picture. We are Kaiser members an are all to familiar with their internal bureaucracy. They preach preventive medicine. However, what they say and do are very different.

This leads me to my point. If we are faced with these kind of failures in American Health care. How could anyone be blamed for looking else where for saving their life.

My husband an I spoke to Cathy with DonateLifeCalifornia.org in hopes of organizing a donor drive. We are working on a Ride for Life to attracted and sign up motorcycle riders of all ages. We are aiming for the 3rd or 4th weekend in August. Cathy shared with much surprise to us that the standard practice here in the states is that donated organs are only from loved ones that are brain dead. You would think that if someone is declared dead at the seen of an accident, that the individual would be considered a potential organ donor. Wrong! Apparently if the blood and oxygen has stopped flowing, under current practices they are dismissed as a possible donor. Well that definitely gives a broader picture on why we have a lack of organs.
Why does it matter if the oxygen or blood flow stop? When the organ is removed from the body and transported to the transplant center for transplant there is no flow then either. Are you a DONOR?

http://www.donateLIFEcalifornia.org

Anderson Cooper 360 a show on CNN will be here at the house today. Maybe they can help us find these answers.

Stay tuned for more.

2006-05-09T10:32:00.000-07:00

55 A.T.

Eric went back to work yesterday. His first day back since the transplant. The doctors told him that he would be off a minimum of six months. But not Eric, less than two months and he is back at it.

Thank God for his employer. They have been very supportive through this trying time. Thank you for everything.

Eric goes in tomorrow morning for a bone scan. We'll be keeping our fingers crossed that nothing turns up. It is always nail biting when he does these tests.

We will keep everyone posted!

2006-05-07T09:05:00.000-07:00

53 A.T.

Eric an I took the kids out to Oklahoma this last week to see my father. Dad was having cataract surgery and we wanted to be there. This was the first time Eric had been away from home and hospital since our return from China. Everyone was amazed of how well he is doing.

Eric returned home Wednesday with our son Dominic since he needed to do lab work every Monday and Thursday. Until the doctors get his anti rejection medication where they want it, and his blood sugar under control. We won't be able to travel very far for any length of time.

I have done internet searches, just plugging Eric De Leon and China. It is unreal on how many results pop up. That most recent Opinion article by Debra Saunders was a waste of space in the paper. This woman is a piece of work. She called the house and began a very aggressive interrogation not an interview. She was quick to call my husband an Ugly American and title her article The American Vampire. She doesn't care to share the reason why we made the decision we did. No, that would take to light of us and shed light on our failing medical society. An our lack of educating society about the need for donors. A number of people choose not to donate a loved one's organs. In some of these cases religious beliefs are the reason. In others it is a little greed. It is very difficult to accept that loss. We just lost our love one and want to hold on to everything physical. I don't blame them. But what most people don't realize when an autopsy is performed every organ is removed from the body, weighed and visually inspected. The organs are then returned to the body cavity or incinerated. If the body is going to be disturbed in such a manner, doesn't it make sense to donate the organs to someone waiting for a chance to live?

Are we proud of what we did? No we are not. We should not have had to resort to going outside of the United States.

I wrote a comment back to Debra Saunders about her article. I have yet to receive a response from her. She asked my husband if his book was a how to book. He answered that he was sharing his story to bring awareness and create a movement for educating as well as change and improve our current situation with the lack of donors.

You think what my husband did was wrong, Debra. I respect you opinion, and that is exactly what it is your opinion. To attack the character of a man whom you had a five minute phone conversation with. Shows one thing, the lack of character you have, Debra. And affluent, since when is a construction superintendent considered affluent.

Are we ashamed of what we did? No, we are not. We did what we needed to do, and we did everything legally. Unlike, the woman in New York who deliberately bought a kidney. I would say she withheld her name for fear of prosecution not of shame.

2006-04-25T23:51:00.000-07:00

42 A.T.

We had another appointment at UCSF today. The doctor says everything looks fine. They tapered down a bit of the meds. That's a good thing.

I was out browsing the internet tonight, and came across a readers' poll that the San Francisco Chronicle had posted. I thought it was interesting to see the results.

Does anyone agree or disagree with what we did? If you were sitting there with liver cancer, no sign of spread. The Dr.'s told you Chemo was you only option. What would you do?

2006-04-24T01:42:00.000-07:00

40 A.T.

Eric appeared today on CNN International. We haven't seen the interview ourselves, since the satellite office in San Francisco did not receive video feed. So what was actually seem is unknown. We'll see it for ourselves in a couple days.

And for the individual that was kind enough to leave a comment last night. Just to clarify, our current waiting list for a transplant is unjust. Not only is an individual like my husband removed from the transplant list for a cadaver liver. They are also denied the opportunity for a live donor. People seem to miss that part. I was in the process of becoming a live donor for my husband when he was removed. So, the limited supply of organs to go around wouldn't even have been tapped by my husband.

Yes, my husband had cancer. Located only in the liver. Regardless of the size or amount of tumors. Should an individual be denied the opportunity to live?? Even when they have a live donor match??

2006-04-21T02:04:00.000-07:00

36 A.T.

Today, Eric celebrated his 51st Birthday. "Happy Birthday Honey!"

Reflecting on this past year, it has been one hell of a ride.

We celebrated quietly at home. No cake for Eric though. He's now become a member of the Diabetics Club. Yeah, he's become one of the insulin junkies. At least for the time being. His blood sugar has been all out of wack. Mainly due to 2 of the anti rejection drugs.

Eric has been active the last week. He's been doing small handyman jobs around the house, with help of course. I guess since he is unable to be on an actual job site to run work. He has now made our house a job site. Painting walls, hanging doors, hanging lights, who knows I might get an addition on the house if this keeps up.

All kidding aside, Eric is doing great!

2006-04-18T23:01:00.000-07:00

34 A.T.

Today Eric an I were invited to appear on Mornings on 2. The story shared and the point made, was I believe, very clear. It was not about having money and defying the US medical world. It was not about political issues stemming from executed prisoners or the Chinese cleansing of Fulan Gong practitioners. It is about our current practices here in the states, with regards to transplant lists. These transplant lists in all honesty, were not designed with cancer in mind.

We truly appreciate everyone's comments and opinions about current events. Yes, we had a choice Chemo or Transplant in China. We chose the possibility of life. We need to change things here in the states, so people don't have to consider this option.

There was a note to the Editor of the Chronicle today. Basically saying that we needed to boost the drive on family and friends becoming live donors. That's fine and dandy. But there again, the many cancer patients that are diagnosed with liver cancer fall short. The criteria for a liver transplant if you have cancer is cut an dry, 3 or less tumors, measuring 5 cm or less. This is considered a silent killer, and as the doctor put it, an aggressive cancer. So, what choice do people currently have, when they are told out of the starting gates that surgery or a transplant are not an option. No sign of metastasizing, your cancer is just to large for you to be considered a successful candidate for transplant, cadaver or live. So many people fall into that grey area around that fine criteria line. That is what we see as unjust and unfair.

2006-04-17T18:13:00.000-07:00

Well, we were expecting criticism after reading this article. Regardless of the reason behind a prisoners sentence. You an I have no right an are in no position to know an or judge China's judicial system. Tiananmen Square is a nasty scar China will have to live with for a long time to come. However, the true reason for telling our story, is to begin a movement in modifying our current donor set up and UNO's transplant waiting lists. The waiting lists here in the states are not designed for an individual with cancer.
Besides, after researching info on China, while being in China. I am told, the number one crime punishable by death and the most common crime committed is, Drug Smuggling. Which occurs mainly along the border in the south along Vietnam, Laos, and Burma.
Remember you should only believe half of what you read in the media. Yes, they harvest organs from executed prisoners. No, they don't just go out and shoot a prisoner because a Westerner, a Brit, an Israeli, a Malaysian, or anyone else for that fact, shows up with the need for a liver, kidney, lung or heart. The prisoners do in fact have to give their consent to donate. So stealing is a poor choice of words.

The media has chosen to spin off the executed prisoner bit from our story. Please don't allow it to redirected you away from our main goal in sharing it.

2006-04-17T08:11:00.000-07:00

33 A.T.

We were awoken tis morning at 7am by a phone call from a friend. We thought at first, he was pulling our leg. Telling us that Eric's story hit the front page of the San Francisco Chronicle. We knew there was going to be an article in the paper. We never thought that it was going to get close to the front page, let alone on the front page.

I am glad the story is getting out, said Eric. Even if there is controversy about executed prisoners. As far as we know the current practice with prisoners is that they do give there consent.

If they take away from society to end up with the fate they have. I see nothing but a good thing as they give back to society on there way out of this world.

For us, if this is where and how we acquired the organ. So be it.

2006-04-12T18:11:00.000-07:00

30 A.T

We have been home now for just over a week and Eric feels great. We have seen both our doctors at Kaiser and UCSF. They agree he looks great. The surgeon at UCSF said Eric was still at high risk of recurrence, do to having a thrombus in a portal vein. We still have some work to do.

China doctors are saying he should do preventive Chemo. The American doctors disagree. The American doctors say we'll just watch you closely and if something develops, they we'll discuss Chemo. Watching closely mean CT Scans every 3 months. We are kind of leaning to preventive. We have already seen where waiting sends us. Who knows, this might put us in a position to go back to Shanghai for Chemo. That would be sad.

2006-04-04T16:17:00.000-07:00

20 A.T

We got up bright an early on April 4th. We managed to get the luggage packed the night before. Hard to believe, we got everything packed! We toasted off the last evening by ordering some food from the one restaurant we have grown to love, Simply Thai. Joyce an I still needed to head over to the fabric market and pick up a couple of outfits we bought last minute. So there we were. Running on about 3 hours of sleep we were up by 6 am. Eric was in the kitchen making breakfast. He is acting like he is picking up right where he left off. Skillet fried country potatoes with bell pepper and poached eggs on bread. This was just what we needed to start our day. Joyce I ran out the door and picked up our outfits. We returned about an hour later, about 9:00 am. Ok 15 minutes and Tony will be here to take us to the airport. Plane leaves at 12:45 pm. Oh we have time to stop at Starbucks for one last Shanghai Latte. Leave it to me to schedule every minute to the last minute. Just enough time left to run back up to the apartment and do one final walk through. Did we forget anything?

To late now! We are home, back in the good ole Us of A. Eric an I were so anxious to get home to the kids, we both could not sleep on the 10 hour flight. I took forever, to get our luggage and make our way through customs. But we finally passed through the doors to family and friends waiting for Eric. We were greeted by Eric's daughters, Desi, Athena, an Andrea. Along with them were Dominic and Samantha, including Eric's granddaughter Tiana. Samantha was the first to howler "Daddy!" She was adorable wearing the little China doll dress I brought back a couple of weeks ago. Eric was also greeted by a few good friends, George, Bill Pezell, Leo, and Wayne. Non of them could get over how good Eric looked. He looks Fantastic!!

We made our way home and ah... I never realized how much I missed my couch. We ended up with a couple visitors during the day, Eric's pals, Paul and Todd. Eric finally realized how tired he was when the clock hit 3:00 pm. For the rest of the afternoon an evening he slept off an on. Until about 3:00 am tis morning. We both are trying to readjust to the time change.

It's 8:oo am Eric has just had his first shower since the surgery. All I hear is ohhs and ahhs. He still has a pink belly from the iodine. So I can still call him my pink belly sap sucker.

He has got an appointment with Dr Wilkes his GI doctor at 3:00 pm today. So we are a bit excited to see the look on his face. When Eric comes waltzing through that hospital door. We tell you about it later.

Ta Ta for now.

2006-04-03T07:20:00.000-07:00

19 A.T.

It is now day number 19 since Eric's liver transplant. He is doing fantastic! Looking at him in the picture with the leading liver surgeon here at the hospital, who would ever think, that he had just undergone such a life saving operation. Eric is being released today and not a day to soon. We are being told continuously, that he has recovered remarkably fast. Fast or slow, didn't matter. Just the opportunity to have the surgery and recover, it a blessing in it's self.

Eric was chatting away with hospital staff an anyone who passed by the room for that fact. Inviting anyone an everyone to San Francisco. Eric, has became especially fond on Missy Joe, his 24 hour nanny. He has grown use to the messages and sponge baths. How will I ever compete. All kidding aside, Missy Joe has become like family. Alpha and Tony, finally showed up at 10:00am to break him out!! We have been sent home with a plastic shopping bag full of medicines. I feel like we've just left Walgreens! Tony says, Eric Is not taking as many pills as some patients. I can't imagine that 20 pills a day, is not many.

It feels good to be able to hug and hold my husband, not having to wear a mask, hair cover, heavy cotton gown, and little blue footsies.

At the moment all I can think about is how am I going to get all the stuff we bought home? It wasn't all mine either. Eric's 6 pairs of slacks, 2 cashmere blazers, and ties. Oh yeah! I forgot, his 24 plus shirts he had to get also. And to think most of this was done bed side. As you can see, here are a few pieces of his new Armani collection.

Well, I guess I better get around and finish packing. Eric and Joyce are sifting through the movies we have picked up during our stay. They are worried they'll be mistaken for bootleggers. With our 35 dvds we picked up for about 90 cents each and Joyce's 2 dozen. We might be able to open our own video store. Ha Ha!!

ok ok..Good night everyone!!

2006-03-31T07:22:00.000-08:00

15 A.T.

Here we are, another day in wonderful Shanghai. The land of about 1.5 million people, exotic fruits, and hospital meals that keep you guessing.

Eric has had the luxury of sampling many of these. The picture here is a fruit called "Dragon Fruit." This fruit was very interesting. Had no taste, but very juicy and refreshing. Needless to say, Eric is growing quite tiresome of the hospital food. Now he truly understands what Daniel (previous transplant patient) meant when he shared that the food tasted like....Hmm, wonder what he said?

The normal meal Eric receives consists of 2 bowls of rice, an a Banana. Along with that he also receives a dish of meat. This is when he gets to play "What am I?" Today's Menu for example consisted of the following.

Breakfast: Meat Bun and Milk or Fried shredded pork and pickled green noodles with egg.

Lunch: Braised weever with brown sauce (does anyone know what that is?,) Salted egg with minced pork, or stewed shredded eel and bamboo shoots..Mmm

Supper: Gingeli and sliced fish (huh?,) Ham and pigeon, or Stir fried slices pork and black mushrooms. Choice of vegetables: Fried sugar peas or saute chrysanthemum. And Choice of soup: Hot and sour soup or Diced duck and radish soup.

Now doesn't that all sound yummy? Fortunately, Eric has a good woman who loves him. I brought him a Filet minion Steak with Onion soup and salad, all for $12.00usd. We have a restaurant called The Bull Fighter, located down stairs from the apartment. This place is about the equal to a Sizzler. No matter how good or bad it was, Eric was stuffed.

Occasionally, Eric lucks out an ends up with a some what yummy meal. Boy is he playing up on the Private Nanny thing. Heck, he even has her hand feeding him. This is one thing you would never find in a U.S. hospital. When I get him home, I'll have my work cut out for me, trying to de-program him.

Seriously, the staff here at the hospital have been fabulous. Yes, communication is at times challenging, but for the most part you are very well taken care of. Eric's nanny feeds him, baths him, an even takes evening strolls with him up and down the hall. I asked Eric if I should be jealous..hehe..

We did have a minor set back in regards to Eric's discharge. Apparently Eric is showing signs that his Hep C levels are growing. So the Doctors started him on Interferon. One shot every other day. "Not so bad," he says. We knew that he was going to have to go through the Interferon as well. We just didn't realize it was going to be literally right after. Eric is getting cabin fever. He went as far as to question the Doctors. He asked them why they haven't check his blood sugar, or tested his blood levels for that last 2 to 3 days? There answers were "Don't need to anymore, there fine." He tried to convince them that there was no reason for them to keep them in the hospital. They told him that he still needed a shot (interferon.) He's just couldn't understand why for 1 shot. This just goes to show you that the hospitals here are interested in rushing you off until it time. Never the less, Eric was bummed that he is now in there for an additional 2 days. Big deal! He's better off in there, With a flu going around and his immune system affected by the anti-rejection drugs. Besides, he's have fun teasing Missy Joe.

So It is currently 1:30am Saturday morning here in Shanghai, 9:30am Friday on the Pacific Coast, and I am wore out. Good night!

2006-03-28T07:17:00.000-08:00

13 A.T.

Today, I took my Aunt Joyce to the Fabric Market. We went a little crazy. All I could think as I was buying, was how my dry cleaning bill was going up. We spent most of the afternoon there. A person could get lost in that place.

We had an early dinner at a Sushi restaurant close to the apartment. Then proceeded to head off to the hospital for a visit with Eric an play a little bones. Just look at what I saw when I arrived!

Now I have seen it all! Eric was telling everyone that he came for a transplant. I am starting to think he is here for the 24 hour pampering. The woman in the pictures, is Eric's "private" nanny. Eric has named her Missy Jean. Thanks to her, everyone was able to see Eric's rear playing golf. She is the one who took the black mail picture!!

Eric is going to be released on Friday, March 31st..Hip Hip hooray!! He will need to go back on Monday to have the staples removed. Once that is done, we will have one last night in Shanghai. Then we are off to the airport to board United flight 858, destination San Francisco!

2006-03-26T09:32:00.000-08:00

7 A.T. - 11 A.T.

Well I have made it back to Shanghai, in one piece. Eric is feeling quite well. He has been writing away in his journal. He has decided that he is going to write a book to share his experience, and hopefully help others in similar situations.

While I was in California, had called me about 5 times the first day. Simply to share with me that he was BORED out of his scull. I reminded him that he needed to make the best of it and relax. He definitely took my advice. I have returned to find, 20 chapters and a sketching of what he wants the book cover to look like. WOW!

Tony, was kind enough to bring Eric some golf balls and a putter. So after all that writing they decided to play a round of indoor golf. From this last picture it looks like Eric must have been loosing. He seemed to have resorted to distraction tactics.

Some men will do almost anything to win!!

2006-03-20T05:13:00.000-08:00

5 A.T.

Well I am so sorry that we haven't posted since the end of last week. But as you can see Eric was very busy in ICU watching DVDS and playing games. No internet access in the hospital so we suffered without.

Eric will be moved out of ICU tomorrow. It would have been sooner, but there were NO vacancies on the other side of the floor.

I am going to fly home on Wednesday with Tiffany, for a couple of days to see the kids and cake care of some odds and ends. Then I will see heading back to Shanghai on Saturday. My aunt Joyce will joining us for a week. Eric was told that he'll have his staples in for another 2 weeks. So, I guess I have some shopping to do.. Just kidding!! I will be making a couple more stops at least, to that wonderful restaurant, Simply Thai. Yummy yummy!

Eric is doing fantastic. He was up and walking tonight and walked up and down the hall. He was like a 5 year old. He stopped at each room and waved at every patient, smiling. Then he stopped and started doing squats. He had all the nurses giggling. It was to funny.

Unless we can resolve our internet issue in the hospital. You may not see a new posting after tomorrow, until I return Sunday evening.

Until tomorrow.

2006-03-17T09:32:00.000-08:00

2 A.T. ( after transplant )

Well it's been 2 days since and as you can see Eric is feeling pretty good, despite all the tubes, iv's and wires. We has already said he's ready to go. Isn't that just like him! He's no where near ready. He's already bored out of his mind. Partly due to the fact that he hasn't been able to sleep much. Plus he's a little paranoid. He thinks the nurses are screwing around with him. Tony said the paranoia is normal and is actually one of the side effects of the anti rejection medicine. I think it might also have a little to do with the fact that there is a bit of a language barrier. I try and reassure him that he's fine and just to try and relax as best he can. This hospital staff are professionals and do this job as a daily routine.

Tiffany and I are able to go in and see him any time we like.

"Move over nurse Ratchet!"

He has quite a battle wound. They removed his bandages when they were going to give him a sonogram. Good timing! The Doctor told Eric that he was very lucky. He received a 20 year old liver. Young and healthy. Hmmm...Maybe that's why Eric is feeling so good already!

2006-03-15T23:30:00.000-08:00

Eric is doing great!! He is awake an alert. Dr. Fan said he didn't realize that Eric talked so much! He's over come the worst part. Now he'll find himself in ICU for about 5 to 10 days. He needs to shut up and rest. So he can heal. We will go back tomorrow and see him some more. He is on a morphine drip so he has no pain. He did say that his stomach and chest felt heavy. Tony told him it was because the bandages were pulled tight. They cut through his muscles in his stomach, and tight bandages assist with keeping the muscles pulled tight together. This way they can repair and rebuild the muscle.

Say "Hi!" Eric

2006-03-15T11:01:00.000-08:00

It's now 3:00 am, Thursday morning. Eric was moved from the operation floor to the ICU around 2:00 am. The surgeon said that the surgery went well and there were no complications. They wheeled him past us, and I could not bring myself to take a picture. Eric was still unconscious with a breathing tube down his throat. Not an image worthy of sharing.

The surgery lasted a total of about 5 hours. Tony shared with us that they were doing 4 liver transplants tonight and 8 kidney transplants. Eric of course was the last one to be brought to ICU. One of the surgeons inquired on if we wanted to see the liver they removed from Eric. I told him yes. We went down the surgery floor and the surgeon brought a large bowl with a huge roast. Really, Eric's liver was huge. The doctor said his liver was twice the size of a normal liver. This size was due to the Hep C and the cancer. The average liver weighs around 3 pounds Eric's was all of 6 pounds. The size had to be what made up most of his belly.

Tony and his friend Ben stayed with Tiffany an I at the hospital while we waited for Eric to come out of surgery. Tony has made this a fantastic experience. He has succeeded in minimizing our stress and anxiety.

Tomorrow, Tony is going to pick us up at 11:00 am, and take us over to the hospital. He has arranged for us to see Eric. So I am going to try and get some sleep. It has been a very long day, emotionally draining.

2006-03-15T03:13:00.000-08:00

Ok, it is happening! After my last Blog post, Tiffany an I went to grab a bite to eat since we figured it was going to be a long night. From what they told us the surgery was going to be at 8:00 pm, and it was 4:00 pm. Plenty of time, right? Wrong, while we were sitting down eating the cell phone rang. It was Tony telling me they were about to take Eric into surgery. I freaked! We grabbed our stuff and leaving our plates only half eaten. While I tried to pay for the meal. Tiffany was already outside hailing a taxi. I jumped in, and we were off. We were not very far from the hospital, about a mile. When we got to the room, the stretcher was in the hallway, and Eric was still in the bathroom shaving. Mind you, he had to shave everywhere no just his face!

I was relieved to know that I could kiss him and tell him how much I love him, before they took him from me. I went down the elevator with him to the next floor an away he went.

They say the surgery will take about 5 to 7 hours. I know the Lord is here in Shanghai with us. When he comes out of surgery, they will wheel him past the room we will be in. So I will be able to see him on his way to the ICU. Tony said normally the ICU allows no one in for visiting. But tomorrow morning they will make an exception for me.

Dominic and Samantha, Mommy and Daddy Love and miss you both very much!! We will be home real soon!

P.s. Just to warn you my next posting will have some graphic pictures

2006-03-14T18:41:00.000-08:00

Well right now..It is 2:50pm here in Shanghai. Eric is still at the hospital waiting for the transplant. We haven't received word on whether or not the organ passed the screening. But they are pumping him full of fluids and have already began prepping him for surgery. The nurse came in and shaved his chest and belly. I don't remember Eric having hair there..haha.

We assume that everything is a go for tonight if they are doing all this. Eric was told surgery would be around 8:00pm tonight which means 5 hours to go. All of our anticipation and anxiety from these last 2 weeks has now turned into nervousness.

I have never admitted this but I am really scared. I have no regrets in reassuring Eric we or he was doing the right thing.

As soon as Eric goes into surgery I will post to the blog.

Thank you

2006-03-14T08:39:00.000-08:00

Well hopefully this is it. We received a call today saying that they had a organ match... FINALLY!! Of course the screening still needs to be done. Eric had to check into the hospital around 3pm today. So, here are a couple of pictures in his new wardrobe. I told him he looked more like a member of a prison chain gang from the south, than a hospital patient. He was able to have dinner. So Tiffany an I went down to a food shop on the street and pick up some food. Pork buns, won ton soup, rice, and some chow main. Shanghai give new meaning to the phrase "cheap date." The 3 of us ate till we were stuffed on a total of $4.00usd.

I have to admit. It's been hard on Eric. Trying to quit smoking. I busted him sneaking a cigarette out the bathroom window! Just look at him, he knew he was busted! Just kidding!

Tiffany flew in yesterday to be with us. I am glad in a way that we had to wait. If not, I am not sure what I would have done if I had to go through Eric being in surgery by myself. She is truly a great friend, to come all this way to give support me an Eric.

Well it is about 12:15am here March 15, 2006 Wednesday. Tiffany an I just left the hospital and came back to the apartment. In the morning we will head back to the hos pital and wait to find out if the surgery will happen. We should know some thing by mid day.

I will let everyone know immediately by the blog when Eric goes into surgery. Once again, Thank you all for your love and prayers.

2006-03-12T04:04:00.000-08:00

Today is March 12th..The weather cleared up but it was colder than crap!! All Eric wanted to do was head to the market down the street and take pictures..I know what so great about a grocery market. See for yourself. Eric and I could not believe the things that people eat. Vegetables are a big thing. They have an abundance of meat and fish. I have to remind myself that there is 30 Million people in this city. One delicacy here is soft shelled turtle. Those poor little things were individually wrapped awaiting their fate. Someone told me the seafood wasn't that great. I see no complaints here. They had all kinds to choose from.

2006-03-11T06:03:00.000-08:00

Today is Saturday the 11th. It rained all day. So we were not really able to do to much. We did go down to Starbucks and relax for a while. Yes Gary, Eric did order one of those fu fu drinks, an Iced caramel machiado. Eric made a dinner date with Tony so we met them for dinner tonight he an a friend of his from New York. Tony took us to a Hunan restaurant which seemed quite popular among locals. I have to say we tried dishes that we would never normally try. I'm glad we are very open minded. We sampled a dish consisting of, get this, "Duck Tongues." I know, I know, eww! It was different. The other dish was fish head.

After getting past dinner, we had a very interesting discussion with Tony's friend Ben. He was explaining to us what had brought him to Shanghai. He was looking to start up a venture in colored diamonds here. Apparently the quality of diamond here is rather lacking. Therefore, a clear diamond is uncommon, but a colored diamond would be more appealing due to the likeness of the poor quality diamonds that they usually see in these parts.

Our evening was full of unusual meal dishes and stimulating conversation as you tell!

Oh by the way, If you are ever in Shanghai. Do not buy the fur coats. Why you ask? Well lets put it this way, We haven't seen any dogs.

2006-03-10T06:22:00.000-08:00

Today is Friday and we were hopeful that Eric would have his surgery by now. Well we've been here 10days and so far all we have is great food and wonderful pictures!

Really though, we are home sick and miss our kids.

"Hello Dominic! Hello Samantha!" "Hello Cris, Desi, Athena, and Dre!"
We are trying to make the best out of it. Believe us, it's tough. As you can see from all the pictures!

These pictures are of an area call "The Bund." It is similar to the Embarcadaro or Fisherman's warf. The skylight is something else. They light up the sides of buildings and look like huge televisions. It is unreal!

2006-03-10T06:20:00.000-08:00

Now by this time, we are tired of waiting. So, we decided to head to the shopping mall in search of swimming suits. The complex we are staying in has a nice pool and we needed suits! Getting to the mall wasn't bad, wading through the crowds of people was a different story. This mall was gigantic. As you can see, we had floors and floors of shops. The task of finding swim suits would be easy right? Wrong!! We walked every floor. Shops for women, shops for men. Shops for shoes, shops of food. After wandering around for about an hour an a half. We finally found one shop that had swim suits...Yes, Just 1.

2006-03-08T16:34:00.000-08:00

We ended our day of garment making by stopping off at an excellent Thai restaurant called SIMPLY THAI. It was fantastic. The food was so yummy, and WOW, the spices. I needed a few drinks to stop my tongue from dancing. This place is a definite 4 star in our book. The staff spoke descent English which made it even more pleasurable and they were very nice. "Hey Jorge! We found your half brother working here. He's wearing the orange shirt. " Until tomorrow, Keep Blogging!

2006-03-08T13:37:00.000-08:00

Day 8,

Today we decided to head to the fabric Market. Now this seemed like we were out of the tourist area. The market was tucked in on this narrow street which was lined with little food shops and various vendors. It was like walking into an indoor flea market. fabric everywhere and dozens and dozens of spaces with different people selling different fabrics and different styles of clothes. Eric found a space that had men's shirts. After discussing price we settled on 92 yuen about $11 u.s. each..not a bad deal to be fitted and have them made just for you.
Needless to say he bought 6 different fabrics for 6 different shirts.

I on the other hand found a nice wool fabric and was able to have a 3 piece suit made for 550 yuen about $65 u.s..Measured to fit. It will take about a week to make. We can not wait to see how they turn out.

2006-03-07T19:17:00.000-08:00

Here are some great pictures from The Jade Budda Temple. The pictures don't do it justice. This place is amazing.

2006-03-06T21:20:00.000-08:00

These are pictures of the YU YUAN
Garden. It's amazing that such a beautiful place is smack in the middle of a busy shopping center in the middle of old town.

2006-03-06T15:54:00.000-08:00

Monday, March 6, 2006
We decided to do a little more sight seeing today. We started off by grabbing a Starbucks Coffee and took off walking. Today we took no maps, just a couple names of places written in Chinese characters by the front desk. BIG RISK TAKERS!! The following are pictures of the everyday hustle and bustle around us.
This is an overpass for pedestrian. As you can see the sun is out as well as the haze.

Here is a couple picture of the fantastic buildings. Eric likes these pictures since they show the new and up coming Shanghai mixed in with the older areas.

They have every possible means of transportation here. Bicycles, mopedes, motorcycles, buses, and my favorite, Taxis!!

A typical alley between buildings, and everyone hangs their clothes to dry.

2006-03-05T18:08:00.000-08:00

Day 5

We did nothing but lounge around. Being that it was Sunday there was not much going on. Besides, after a nonstop week behind us. We needed the rest. We made a few calls and played on the computer, looking up stuff that we might like to go and see. We have never been so lazy! Was nice.

2006-03-04T02:51:00.000-08:00

More of Day Four
Once we returned to the city street level, we headed to a part of town known as Old Town. If you want a good deal, this is the place!! Eric had a very hard time getting me out of here!
The architecture of the these buildings is so neat. We wondered around the many walks, lined with various shops. Eric an I came up with a saying after 5 minutes, " We just looky looky 'cause you so pushy pushy." Everyone has a watch or a purse to sell. I was in heaven!!

We then found a Tea House and decided to sit down and relax. " Look what we are eating, Pigeon eggs!!" They are pretty good, bight size hard boiled eggs.

After shopping and eating, we were ready to head back to the hotel. So goodbye for now.

Eric and Lori

2006-03-04T02:23:00.000-08:00

Day Four

We decided to do get lost in Shanghai today. We started off by going to the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. This tower stands 468 meters tall. We thought, we would share the view with you. Enjoy!

The top right picture is the Pearl Tower. Shanghai's version of the Space Needle. The remaining pictures are the view from the top of the Pearl Tower.

This gives you a feeling of how large this city really is. It is un believable! Look at all of the boats on the river, the river is just like their city streets. The third picture of the stand alone building currently is the tallest building, standing a whopping 88 floors. If you look closely at this picture. Just to the left of this tall building is another building under construction. When it's finished, it will end up being the tallest at 96 stories tall

2006-03-03T18:36:00.000-08:00

And here are some pictures of the Xu Hui area of Shanghai, also known as the French Concession area.

2006-03-03T18:21:00.000-08:00

Here are some current pictures..this one is from right to left.
Lori, Alpha, and Tony..These 2 guys have been great!!

2006-03-03T14:39:00.000-08:00

The Trial Run

Today we got up and got around. Getting things together to go back to the hospital. On our way out of the hotel I stopped off at Starbucks..yes Starbucks and ordered a Soy Latte..one thing that tasted and reminded me of home.

We got back to the hospital an sat around trying to get internet access and no luck! We needed to get online to do our banking. So we left and went back to our apartment in order to get online. Amazing that we could come and go from the hospital so easy. We were told to be back at 1:oopm. So we took advantage of the time and went and had lunch. I have to say both Eric and myself like the food. It is trial an error on ordering though. It sure is a good thing that we enjoy Chinese food, if we didn't we would be in big trouble. We had some Dim Sum and Beef and vegetable stir fry.

Just as we were finishing lunch we received a phone call telling us that the surgery was being postponed. Reason was the potential Liver did not pass the screening tests. Bummer!

No problem we will just take advantage of the time and try and see some sights of the Shanghai.

We decided to go and get some groceries for the apartment and went to a grocery store that had western goods. Of all places to find a grocery store, we found ourselves at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. I could not believe it. It seemed like we were at the Cesar Palace in Las Vegas. It was a city all of its own. We bought of all things Peanut Butter and Jelly. We figured you can't go wrong with that. We also found some Breyers Ice cream. More comfort food.

Well enough of my rambling for now.

Hopefully I can upload a couple of pictures on our next posting. Bye for now!
Lori an Eric

2006-03-02T04:21:00.000-08:00

Well we made it the Shanghai after a long 13 1/2 hour flight. We lucked out with getting First Class. The coordinator Tony met us at the airport an escorted us to the hotel.
We started our first full day by meeting with Dr. Fan the leading Transplant Surgeons at 7:30am tis morning. Then the rest our day was full of Tests, Tests, and more Tests. Blood work, EKG, Bone scan, respitory test, sonogram, CTscan, an a MRI. Tony had told us we had the weekend to visit the city being that we finished all pretests and we were now in a holding pattern.
Tony took us to a restaurant for lunch and friendly chat. In the middle of lunch Tony received a phone call informing us that there was a O+ liver that would be available tomorrow. WOW!!
We have been here less than 24 hours and we have a possible match.
They admitted Eric into the Hospital tonight. But we were able to write a absent note stating that we would be back in the morning. To funny!!
So off to bed we go, after an exhausting day. We will head off to the hospital once again bright an early. There we will sit and wait to find out if the potential liver passes all the screening tests. Should it end up good, Eric will go into surgery on the evening of the March 3rd. Which would last approximately 7 hours.....
I will keep you posted!! Once again thank you all for your heart felt thoughts and prayers. It means a lot to have such a fantastic group of friends and family.

2006-02-26T21:03:00.000-08:00

This is the last evening with our kids Dominic and Samantha. Before Eric an I head for Shanghai, China. Tomorrow is a day full of errand running, and will end with much emotion. Dominic and Samantha will be staying with their aunts in San Jose while we are away. It is already difficult thinking that we will be away from them for a month let alone a night.

We have been trying to joke with Eric trying to keep things light, even both knowing that we both share the anziety. This is a big move, but I feel it is well worth it. We are jumping head first on Flight UA857 on 28 Febuary. Cross your fingers! We will keep you all posted.

Lori

2006-02-26T17:53:00.000-08:00

2006-02-26T17:39:00.000-08:00

Lori and Sam

2006-02-26T16:52:00.000-08:00

I'm getting closer to the big day, we are leaving on Tuesday 02/28/06 2:00 p.m.
I'm a little nervous but very positive. Maybe someone else will read this page and it will help.
I will be updating regularly to let all know what's going on. I will talk to you soon, please write.