Hi Friends,
All is well. The docs come in at 7:00 a.m. Sunday morning to remove the bandages and assess Bob's skin graft. If all goes well, plans will continue for him to come home early next week, with chemo treatment to follow as soon as he is able to walk into the oncology clinic.
Shelly remains off work, caring for Bob, and will continue to be so for the immediate future.
We'll let you know tomorrow how the graft assessment goes.
Take care and our continuing thanks.
The Freemans
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Friday, February 20, 2009
Update- Friday, Feb. 20
Hello All,
No news is good news!!!
Nothing new to report, but Bob did suggest that the smart money is on #24 in this Sunday's NASCAR race right here in good 'ol Fontana!
On a serious note, we had the opportunity to watch a tape of the televised Board meeting where those folks at A.B. Miller who helped save Bob's life were honored. It was very emotional for us. We're very sorry we couldn't be there to express our thanks too, which was our intention, but somehow communications were mixed up and we weren't aware that these three heroes would be honored at this Board meeting. Were we there, we would have expressed our sincere and heartfelt thanks and gratitude for your heroic actions. Bob is alive today due in no small part to your quick, unselfish actions. We thank you again from the bottom of our hearts!
The Bob and Bill Freeman Families
No news is good news!!!
Nothing new to report, but Bob did suggest that the smart money is on #24 in this Sunday's NASCAR race right here in good 'ol Fontana!
On a serious note, we had the opportunity to watch a tape of the televised Board meeting where those folks at A.B. Miller who helped save Bob's life were honored. It was very emotional for us. We're very sorry we couldn't be there to express our thanks too, which was our intention, but somehow communications were mixed up and we weren't aware that these three heroes would be honored at this Board meeting. Were we there, we would have expressed our sincere and heartfelt thanks and gratitude for your heroic actions. Bob is alive today due in no small part to your quick, unselfish actions. We thank you again from the bottom of our hearts!
The Bob and Bill Freeman Families
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Update, Thursday, Feb. 19th
Hello FOB's (Friends of Bob!)
Bob is doing well, flat on his back through this coming Sunday!! No NASCAR races this weekend!!
On Sunday morning, the plastic surgeon will remove the skin graft bandages and the wound vac "gizmo" to make sure the graft took. If yes, we'll start making plans for his homecoming. If not, well, no sense thinking negatively. Positive thoughts have worked thus far and we're not going to change course at this juncture.
That's it!! How nice to write (and for you to read) something short and sweet.
The Freemans
Bob is doing well, flat on his back through this coming Sunday!! No NASCAR races this weekend!!
On Sunday morning, the plastic surgeon will remove the skin graft bandages and the wound vac "gizmo" to make sure the graft took. If yes, we'll start making plans for his homecoming. If not, well, no sense thinking negatively. Positive thoughts have worked thus far and we're not going to change course at this juncture.
That's it!! How nice to write (and for you to read) something short and sweet.
The Freemans
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Surgery Update- Wednesday, Feb. 18th
Hi All,
Bob came through the skin graft surgery with flying colors!!
The surgery began at 11 p.m. last night (Tuesday) and "closed" a couple hours later. The plastic surgeon took a chunk of skin off his left thigh and grafted it onto the wound in his right groin area. But, in order to aid in the healing process, Bob must remain in bed for at least three days, which means no more laps around the halls and no sitting in the chair for a few days.
We are cautiously optimistic that he may be discharged next Monday or Tuesday at which time the long recuperation will continue. The docs said chemo will begin as soon as he is able to walk into the chemo clinic under his own power.
Mentally, he is also doing well. We are even planning some "excursions" when he gets home, subject to how he feels during the chemo treatments. It's our hope that he and brother Bill will be able to go to Angels spring training sometime in March. We'll just make sure we have a "barf bag" in the car in case he and the chemo decide to have a bit of a disagreement.
As to visitors, we and the docs are still concerned that too many visitors will sap his strength and delay the healing process, so, we've all agreed, including Bob, to keep visitors to family only. I (brother Bill) promise all of you at A.B. Miller that as soon as he is up to it in the next few weeks, I'll load him in the car (or maybe the electric "Rebel Mobile"), and bring him up to campus for a visit. We'll be sure to let you know in advance when he'll be there so you can stop by and say hello.
Anyway, that's all the news that is fit to print! Oh, and lest we forget, a BIG THANK YOU to all the Miller softball girls who sent a bunch of cards!! Whenever any of his medical team walks in, he's always quick to point them out to anyone who will listen.
Take care folks, and our continuing thanks!
The Freemans
Bob came through the skin graft surgery with flying colors!!
The surgery began at 11 p.m. last night (Tuesday) and "closed" a couple hours later. The plastic surgeon took a chunk of skin off his left thigh and grafted it onto the wound in his right groin area. But, in order to aid in the healing process, Bob must remain in bed for at least three days, which means no more laps around the halls and no sitting in the chair for a few days.
We are cautiously optimistic that he may be discharged next Monday or Tuesday at which time the long recuperation will continue. The docs said chemo will begin as soon as he is able to walk into the chemo clinic under his own power.
Mentally, he is also doing well. We are even planning some "excursions" when he gets home, subject to how he feels during the chemo treatments. It's our hope that he and brother Bill will be able to go to Angels spring training sometime in March. We'll just make sure we have a "barf bag" in the car in case he and the chemo decide to have a bit of a disagreement.
As to visitors, we and the docs are still concerned that too many visitors will sap his strength and delay the healing process, so, we've all agreed, including Bob, to keep visitors to family only. I (brother Bill) promise all of you at A.B. Miller that as soon as he is up to it in the next few weeks, I'll load him in the car (or maybe the electric "Rebel Mobile"), and bring him up to campus for a visit. We'll be sure to let you know in advance when he'll be there so you can stop by and say hello.
Anyway, that's all the news that is fit to print! Oh, and lest we forget, a BIG THANK YOU to all the Miller softball girls who sent a bunch of cards!! Whenever any of his medical team walks in, he's always quick to point them out to anyone who will listen.
Take care folks, and our continuing thanks!
The Freemans
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
UPDATE- TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17TH- SURGERY TONIGHT
Hello Family and Friends,
The docs have expedited Bob's skin graft surgery to tonight so that chemo may start ASAP. A patch of skin will be removed from his left thigh and grafted over the wound in his right groin. Now he'll have 2 "gimpy" legs for a few days.
Surgery is scheduled for about 9 p.m. or perhaps even later, but it WILL take place tonight according to the docs. It should last about one and a half hours or so. Compared to the last three surgeries, this one should be a breeze. At noon he was already complaining about not being being able to eat or drink anything, and that was when he thought surgery would be this afternoon. We just can't keep that guy happy! ;-)
Thanks to all our east coast relatives for your phone calls today. We'll be sure to pass them on to Bob tonight before he goes in.
Next update will be either late tonight or early tomorrow morning.
Thanks again to all!!
The Freemans
The docs have expedited Bob's skin graft surgery to tonight so that chemo may start ASAP. A patch of skin will be removed from his left thigh and grafted over the wound in his right groin. Now he'll have 2 "gimpy" legs for a few days.
Surgery is scheduled for about 9 p.m. or perhaps even later, but it WILL take place tonight according to the docs. It should last about one and a half hours or so. Compared to the last three surgeries, this one should be a breeze. At noon he was already complaining about not being being able to eat or drink anything, and that was when he thought surgery would be this afternoon. We just can't keep that guy happy! ;-)
Thanks to all our east coast relatives for your phone calls today. We'll be sure to pass them on to Bob tonight before he goes in.
Next update will be either late tonight or early tomorrow morning.
Thanks again to all!!
The Freemans
Monday, February 16, 2009
Update- Monday, February 16th
Hello All,
Bob is tentatively scheduled for skin graft surgery on Thursday evening, earlier if the wound is sufficiently healed. For now though, we are planning on Thursday night with possible discharge 4-7 days later, and then immediate start of the chemotherapy.
Bob sends his best to all. He had already put in 4 "laps" around the unit halls by 5:30 p.m. and is now occasionally sitting in a chair rather than staying in bed. His physical therapy regimen increases daily, as does his penchant for keeping the staff laughing.
It seems as though everyday someone on staff comes in and after a bit of banter, we determine that we either grew up with their parents, or played little league with them, or we taught someone in their family, or they went to school with our kids, or we had some classes with them in school when WE were kids or we lived in the same neighborhood with someone in their family. It amazes us everyday how many Fontana "kids" have gone into the medical profession and how many of them now work at Kaiser Fontana. When Bob and brother Bill are both in the room together, it seems as though no on comes in with whom they don't have some connection. As one of the nurses said today, "As we get older, the world gets smaller."
Anyway, that's the latest. We'll let you know if there are any changes.
The Freemans
Bob is tentatively scheduled for skin graft surgery on Thursday evening, earlier if the wound is sufficiently healed. For now though, we are planning on Thursday night with possible discharge 4-7 days later, and then immediate start of the chemotherapy.
Bob sends his best to all. He had already put in 4 "laps" around the unit halls by 5:30 p.m. and is now occasionally sitting in a chair rather than staying in bed. His physical therapy regimen increases daily, as does his penchant for keeping the staff laughing.
It seems as though everyday someone on staff comes in and after a bit of banter, we determine that we either grew up with their parents, or played little league with them, or we taught someone in their family, or they went to school with our kids, or we had some classes with them in school when WE were kids or we lived in the same neighborhood with someone in their family. It amazes us everyday how many Fontana "kids" have gone into the medical profession and how many of them now work at Kaiser Fontana. When Bob and brother Bill are both in the room together, it seems as though no on comes in with whom they don't have some connection. As one of the nurses said today, "As we get older, the world gets smaller."
Anyway, that's the latest. We'll let you know if there are any changes.
The Freemans
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Update- Sunday, Feb.15th
Hi All,
Bob continues to improve. He is walking the halls, eating, talking with folks on the phone and having a few more visitors as his strength permits. The docs will examine the wound tomorrow in order to determine when to proceed with the wound cover surgery and then on to chemotherapy.
Brother Bill's goal is to get him feeling well enough by the middle to end of March so that he can join Bill in a short trip to the Angel's spring training in Arizona.
As soon as we hear more on the next surgery we'll let you know.
The Freemans
Bob continues to improve. He is walking the halls, eating, talking with folks on the phone and having a few more visitors as his strength permits. The docs will examine the wound tomorrow in order to determine when to proceed with the wound cover surgery and then on to chemotherapy.
Brother Bill's goal is to get him feeling well enough by the middle to end of March so that he can join Bill in a short trip to the Angel's spring training in Arizona.
As soon as we hear more on the next surgery we'll let you know.
The Freemans
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Update, Sat., Feb 14th
Bob's day began at 4 a.m. when the nursing staff told him they were moving him to the 4th floor because his condition had improved to the point where he didn't require as much medical supervision. Good news!!
Then at 5:45 a.m., after the move, when he could not fall back asleep, he decided to call Shelly at home. The conversation went like this:
"Hey! Happy Valentines Day!! Will you go to McDonalds and get me an Egg McMuffin?"
Ahhh... romance is not dead. At least Bob remembered to start off with "Happy Valentines Day!!"
All in all, Bob is doing well as he readies himself for one more surgery sometime next week, and then the chemo. He's been able to return some phone calls and call some of the folks who left comments for him on the blog. Still, visitors remain extremely limited at this time. We hope you understand.
Hope you all had a nice Valentines Day. As I understand it, Bob DID get his Egg McMuffin.
Take care.
The Freemans
Then at 5:45 a.m., after the move, when he could not fall back asleep, he decided to call Shelly at home. The conversation went like this:
"Hey! Happy Valentines Day!! Will you go to McDonalds and get me an Egg McMuffin?"
Ahhh... romance is not dead. At least Bob remembered to start off with "Happy Valentines Day!!"
All in all, Bob is doing well as he readies himself for one more surgery sometime next week, and then the chemo. He's been able to return some phone calls and call some of the folks who left comments for him on the blog. Still, visitors remain extremely limited at this time. We hope you understand.
Hope you all had a nice Valentines Day. As I understand it, Bob DID get his Egg McMuffin.
Take care.
The Freemans
Speaking of Emotions
After writing the update just below this one, I went back through your previous blog comments. It was then I realized that I have missed so many of them. In the update below, Bob tells you how he finally let his emotions out today and how he had some good cries. Well, after reading so many of your comments that I missed earlier, I am trying to type this with tears in my eyes and a warm glow in my heart.
Yes, my brother is special. Thank you so, so much.
Bill Freeman
Yes, my brother is special. Thank you so, so much.
Bill Freeman
Friday, February 13, 2009
Update- Friday, Feb. 13- AND a Personal Message From Bob
Hi folks,
Below is a personal message from Bob (yes, we cleaned it up a bit!!) and the most recent update (mixed news).
Overall, Bob is feeling better each day, but many challenges still lie ahead. Your continuing concern and support will help him through this. All that info is in the update following his note to all of you.
A NOTE FROM BOB:
"Yo, Yo, Yo to all my students! It's 12 noon Friday.
This morning has been a very emotional one for me. All my 16 year old hormones kicked in. (Where is my testosterone medicine when I need it?) I woke up at 7 a.m. after 10 hours of sleep. My new registered nurse, Stephanie, came in with a big ol' smile and a nice 'good morning' greeting. We started talking, one subject lead to another and I told her how I've taught masonry at A.B. Miller High and how I am so damn proud of my kids. Then, tears started running down my face while I talked with her for about 40 minutes. Stephanie is a 'pro listener' for sure!! Next, my doctor and physician's assistant came in and my blubbering started all over again. Then, I called my wife Shelly, and started blubbering to her. I asked her to bring my A.B. Miller Masonry hat down. Then a friend of 40 years who works here came in and I started blubbering again!!! Then I spoke by phone with Susie Harriger, my neighbor, friend and a counselor at A.B. Miller. Then it was HER turn to listen to me try to talk and cry at the same time.
Today, my daughter Brandi brought down a couple of my A.B. Miller masonry photo albums and and two large picture collages of me and my Miller kids throughout the years. They are now hanging proudly on my hospital room walls. So many of the Kaiser people ask what I do and wanted to see some pictures. Now they can see for themselves. I've been here 11 days now so most of them think I've moved in!! One of the nurses who came in today was on duty the night I first came in and helped prep me for my first emergency surgery. She didn't recognize me at first today, because I looked so bad that night, but she remembered what bad shape I was in. She was so happy to see me with color in my face and to learn that I made it through.
It's now 2 p.m. and I'm writing again. I'm waiting for a phone call from Johnny Cornajo, my G.A. (Guardian Angel), the young man who helped save my life when I bled out at work a week ago Tuesday. I'm really looking forward to talking to him.
Well, thanks to everyone for everything you've done for me. You'll never know how much your thoughts, prayers and deeds have meant to me and how you helped me, and continue to help me, through these tough times.
Bob
P.S. I just got off the phone with Johnny C. I was so happy to talk with you, 'G.A. Johnny.'"
--------------------------------
UPDATE: As you can tell, Bob is now dealing with the emotions he's held in check since being admitted last week. He has an old favorite saying of "You have to get the poison out." Today, he followed his own advice, something we have all been waiting for him to do. Thanks to all of you who lent a sympathetic and caring ear today.
As for the news, his wound continues to heal. The plastic surgeon examined him today and repositioned the "wound vacuum" to further assist in the drying and shrinking of the wound. The wound is actually a large surgical incision that remains open in his right groin/upper thigh area. It is where the cancer was removed and where some cancer still remains. The doc shared with us that most of the pathological reports of the tissue taken during surgery have come back and while most of them were negative, there is still some cancer in the upper thigh muscle. We all hoped the reports would be negative, but we knew this cancer has been fairly adept at hiding from us and then returning with a vengeance. The plastic surgeon will still perform the "wound cover" surgery next week, and he is still leaning towards a skin graft rather than going inside and stretching the rectus muscle to cover it. If the wound continues to heal as it has been, chances are good that the less invasive skin graft from his leg to the wound will still be the procedure of choice. The wound itself is about the size and width of a regular hot dog (that's the best way to describe it). The goal is to have it completely healed or, at the least, to shrink it to the size of one of those little appetizer sausages or hot dogs you see on a party tray. In any event, the surgery WILL take place next week, but the docs remain undecided as to when. Obviously, the sooner the better so the chemo treatments may begin. Irrespective of which surgery is used, how big the remaining wound is or when the surgery will takes place, chemo WILL begin within a week after the surgery.
Well, we think that covers just about everything. The docs want Bob to rest and recuperate this weekend to aid in the healing process. He is walking more, talking to some folks on the phone and regaining some mobility. And suffice it to say, he is keeping the hospital staff smiling and laughing, ESPECIALLY the females. And yes, he still asks everyone who walks in if they want to "see it." Most of us politely decline, but some just can't resist the temptation to see the surgery that has Bob craving testosterone meds!!
Thanks everyone. Your love, kindness and concern continue to shine through some dark hours for Bob and our family.
The Freemans
Below is a personal message from Bob (yes, we cleaned it up a bit!!) and the most recent update (mixed news).
Overall, Bob is feeling better each day, but many challenges still lie ahead. Your continuing concern and support will help him through this. All that info is in the update following his note to all of you.
A NOTE FROM BOB:
"Yo, Yo, Yo to all my students! It's 12 noon Friday.
This morning has been a very emotional one for me. All my 16 year old hormones kicked in. (Where is my testosterone medicine when I need it?) I woke up at 7 a.m. after 10 hours of sleep. My new registered nurse, Stephanie, came in with a big ol' smile and a nice 'good morning' greeting. We started talking, one subject lead to another and I told her how I've taught masonry at A.B. Miller High and how I am so damn proud of my kids. Then, tears started running down my face while I talked with her for about 40 minutes. Stephanie is a 'pro listener' for sure!! Next, my doctor and physician's assistant came in and my blubbering started all over again. Then, I called my wife Shelly, and started blubbering to her. I asked her to bring my A.B. Miller Masonry hat down. Then a friend of 40 years who works here came in and I started blubbering again!!! Then I spoke by phone with Susie Harriger, my neighbor, friend and a counselor at A.B. Miller. Then it was HER turn to listen to me try to talk and cry at the same time.
Today, my daughter Brandi brought down a couple of my A.B. Miller masonry photo albums and and two large picture collages of me and my Miller kids throughout the years. They are now hanging proudly on my hospital room walls. So many of the Kaiser people ask what I do and wanted to see some pictures. Now they can see for themselves. I've been here 11 days now so most of them think I've moved in!! One of the nurses who came in today was on duty the night I first came in and helped prep me for my first emergency surgery. She didn't recognize me at first today, because I looked so bad that night, but she remembered what bad shape I was in. She was so happy to see me with color in my face and to learn that I made it through.
It's now 2 p.m. and I'm writing again. I'm waiting for a phone call from Johnny Cornajo, my G.A. (Guardian Angel), the young man who helped save my life when I bled out at work a week ago Tuesday. I'm really looking forward to talking to him.
Well, thanks to everyone for everything you've done for me. You'll never know how much your thoughts, prayers and deeds have meant to me and how you helped me, and continue to help me, through these tough times.
Oh, and yes David and Terri, I would LOVE some Oak Glen licorice. Just be sure to sneak it by the staff!!
Bob
P.S. I just got off the phone with Johnny C. I was so happy to talk with you, 'G.A. Johnny.'"
--------------------------------
UPDATE: As you can tell, Bob is now dealing with the emotions he's held in check since being admitted last week. He has an old favorite saying of "You have to get the poison out." Today, he followed his own advice, something we have all been waiting for him to do. Thanks to all of you who lent a sympathetic and caring ear today.
As for the news, his wound continues to heal. The plastic surgeon examined him today and repositioned the "wound vacuum" to further assist in the drying and shrinking of the wound. The wound is actually a large surgical incision that remains open in his right groin/upper thigh area. It is where the cancer was removed and where some cancer still remains. The doc shared with us that most of the pathological reports of the tissue taken during surgery have come back and while most of them were negative, there is still some cancer in the upper thigh muscle. We all hoped the reports would be negative, but we knew this cancer has been fairly adept at hiding from us and then returning with a vengeance. The plastic surgeon will still perform the "wound cover" surgery next week, and he is still leaning towards a skin graft rather than going inside and stretching the rectus muscle to cover it. If the wound continues to heal as it has been, chances are good that the less invasive skin graft from his leg to the wound will still be the procedure of choice. The wound itself is about the size and width of a regular hot dog (that's the best way to describe it). The goal is to have it completely healed or, at the least, to shrink it to the size of one of those little appetizer sausages or hot dogs you see on a party tray. In any event, the surgery WILL take place next week, but the docs remain undecided as to when. Obviously, the sooner the better so the chemo treatments may begin. Irrespective of which surgery is used, how big the remaining wound is or when the surgery will takes place, chemo WILL begin within a week after the surgery.
Well, we think that covers just about everything. The docs want Bob to rest and recuperate this weekend to aid in the healing process. He is walking more, talking to some folks on the phone and regaining some mobility. And suffice it to say, he is keeping the hospital staff smiling and laughing, ESPECIALLY the females. And yes, he still asks everyone who walks in if they want to "see it." Most of us politely decline, but some just can't resist the temptation to see the surgery that has Bob craving testosterone meds!!
Thanks everyone. Your love, kindness and concern continue to shine through some dark hours for Bob and our family.
The Freemans
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Update- Thursday Afternoon- February 12th
First, thank you Amy for your kind words (see next posting, below) and the wonderful slide show (the third picture to the right, under "Bob's Adventures"). Folks, to better see the slide show pics, use your "zoom" button. They're much easier to view that way!!
As for Bob, he enjoyed his first full night's sleep last night, away from the buzz of ICU. He slept well, but brother Bill didn't because all the darn monitoring machines kept malfunctioning! He and the nurses must have responded to about 20 false alarms while Bob just snored the night away. He felt well enough this morning though, after the good night's slumber, to see his father-in-law for the first time since being admitted 9 days ago. Visitors are still restricted tho, because, although he is improving, he still has a long way to go and he must conserve his strength for the skin graft surgery, and to allow his body to recuperate. (I know, you English teachers! That was probably another of my infamous fractured run-on sentences!!) After seeing all the cuts and scars and holes in him, two things are known for sure: He's gonna leak every time he drinks a beer and he'll have a heck of a time getting through airport security!! He has enough staples in him to open his own stationary store!!
Well, that's it for now. As we've been saying for the past couple of days, no "new" news is often good news.
With continuing thanks,
All the Freemans
As for Bob, he enjoyed his first full night's sleep last night, away from the buzz of ICU. He slept well, but brother Bill didn't because all the darn monitoring machines kept malfunctioning! He and the nurses must have responded to about 20 false alarms while Bob just snored the night away. He felt well enough this morning though, after the good night's slumber, to see his father-in-law for the first time since being admitted 9 days ago. Visitors are still restricted tho, because, although he is improving, he still has a long way to go and he must conserve his strength for the skin graft surgery, and to allow his body to recuperate. (I know, you English teachers! That was probably another of my infamous fractured run-on sentences!!) After seeing all the cuts and scars and holes in him, two things are known for sure: He's gonna leak every time he drinks a beer and he'll have a heck of a time getting through airport security!! He has enough staples in him to open his own stationary store!!
Well, that's it for now. As we've been saying for the past couple of days, no "new" news is often good news.
With continuing thanks,
All the Freemans
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Everybody loves Bob!
We received the following email from one of Bob's colleagues and thought you might enjoy it. She is also the supplier of the newly added slide show. Amy, thank you for your kind words and compliments. We're sure Bob will be touched and this will bring a smile to his face!
About Bob and the construction industry…..
I had the pleasure of meeting Bob about 8 years ago when I began my career with MITA (Masonry Industry Training Association). Bob is a huge advocate of the masonry industry and has been for many years. He is not only a great husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, he is the best mentor I have ever seen.
Bob has been in the industry for over 30 years. He was a teacher at the Laborers School in Anza and has worked for numerous contractors across California, including Winegardner Masonry. For the past 13 years he has been a masonry instructor for A.B. Miller High School in Fontana. He teaches students to do masonry, then I help them get jobs within the industry.
Every time I am in his classroom a former student, softball player, etc. comes there to visit him. He cares for these kids more than any teacher I have ever met. A lot of students' lives have been changed because of the positive influence Bob has embedded in their minds. He not only teaches them masonry, he teaches them life and job skills that will stay with them for an eternity.
Bob not only works during the school day, he is ALWAYS out begging for materials. He drives around in his truck picking up materials, even if he is on summer break. Anything Bob needs, Bob gets. The contractors and suppliers make sure of it.
He is always worried about others, never himself. I never hear him complain. He always has a smile on his face no matter how he feels. He is a gift whom we all are blessed to be around, and I am honored to call him a friend. Please pray for our dear friend whom we have all grown to love!
Amy Vasquez-Webb
Masonry Industry Training Association
About Bob and the construction industry…..
I had the pleasure of meeting Bob about 8 years ago when I began my career with MITA (Masonry Industry Training Association). Bob is a huge advocate of the masonry industry and has been for many years. He is not only a great husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, he is the best mentor I have ever seen.
Bob has been in the industry for over 30 years. He was a teacher at the Laborers School in Anza and has worked for numerous contractors across California, including Winegardner Masonry. For the past 13 years he has been a masonry instructor for A.B. Miller High School in Fontana. He teaches students to do masonry, then I help them get jobs within the industry.
Every time I am in his classroom a former student, softball player, etc. comes there to visit him. He cares for these kids more than any teacher I have ever met. A lot of students' lives have been changed because of the positive influence Bob has embedded in their minds. He not only teaches them masonry, he teaches them life and job skills that will stay with them for an eternity.
Bob not only works during the school day, he is ALWAYS out begging for materials. He drives around in his truck picking up materials, even if he is on summer break. Anything Bob needs, Bob gets. The contractors and suppliers make sure of it.
He is always worried about others, never himself. I never hear him complain. He always has a smile on his face no matter how he feels. He is a gift whom we all are blessed to be around, and I am honored to call him a friend. Please pray for our dear friend whom we have all grown to love!
Amy Vasquez-Webb
Masonry Industry Training Association
Update for Wednesday, Feb. 11th-- Out Of ICU, Walking and Eating, :-) But, To Aid In His Recovery, He Still May Not Have Visitors.
Hello All,
Bob continues to improve!!
He actually got up and walked a short distance this morning. Additionally, he ate some solid foods, he will be moved out of ICU tonight and the "easier" wound repair surgery has been chosen!!
All good news for Bob!!
Today, the docs attached a "wound vac" to his groin "opening" which will dry the wound and aid in the healing process. The skin graft from his leg to the open wound will probably take place Monday or Tuesday, meaning the surgeons are not "going back in" to pull a major muscle over the wound, thus avoiding another intrusive surgery. His appetite improved and he began his physical therapy regimen this morning. Now all we have to do is get him strong enough to go home after the skin graft next week so that he may begin the chemo treatments. Soooo...... we still need your thoughts and prayers.
He also had Shelly bring his reading glasses to him today so that he may read your blog comments instead of having them read to him. As we walk through the ICU, our hearts go out to the many other people in serious condition, but we count our blessings that Bob is now the healthiest looking person on the floor!!
We're sorry though, that he still may not have visitors other than immediate family. As so many of you have said, his recovery is the primary goal. He REALLY would like to have some of you come see him, however he realizes that he just does not yet have have the strength or stamina to spend time with his many friends and colleagues who care so much about him, Shelly, Brandi and Jodi.
We could have made this a much shorter blog entry, but it is so nice to be able to share good news with you, we just couldn't quit typing.
Again, keep those prayers and positive thoughts coming.
And, by the way, he is always talking about his current and former students and softball players, and wants you to know how much he appreciates and cares for all of you!!!
With continuing thanks,
The Entire Freeman Family
Bob continues to improve!!
He actually got up and walked a short distance this morning. Additionally, he ate some solid foods, he will be moved out of ICU tonight and the "easier" wound repair surgery has been chosen!!
All good news for Bob!!
Today, the docs attached a "wound vac" to his groin "opening" which will dry the wound and aid in the healing process. The skin graft from his leg to the open wound will probably take place Monday or Tuesday, meaning the surgeons are not "going back in" to pull a major muscle over the wound, thus avoiding another intrusive surgery. His appetite improved and he began his physical therapy regimen this morning. Now all we have to do is get him strong enough to go home after the skin graft next week so that he may begin the chemo treatments. Soooo...... we still need your thoughts and prayers.
He also had Shelly bring his reading glasses to him today so that he may read your blog comments instead of having them read to him. As we walk through the ICU, our hearts go out to the many other people in serious condition, but we count our blessings that Bob is now the healthiest looking person on the floor!!
We're sorry though, that he still may not have visitors other than immediate family. As so many of you have said, his recovery is the primary goal. He REALLY would like to have some of you come see him, however he realizes that he just does not yet have have the strength or stamina to spend time with his many friends and colleagues who care so much about him, Shelly, Brandi and Jodi.
We could have made this a much shorter blog entry, but it is so nice to be able to share good news with you, we just couldn't quit typing.
Again, keep those prayers and positive thoughts coming.
And, by the way, he is always talking about his current and former students and softball players, and wants you to know how much he appreciates and cares for all of you!!!
With continuing thanks,
The Entire Freeman Family
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
2nd Update- Tuesday, Feb. 10
Hi All,
Bob continues to improve. He is much more alert and his mental state is much improved as the drugs from his surgeries dissipate. In fact, he is feeling so much better, when we asked him what message he would like to send to his friends on the blog, he said, and we quote, "&^$>@!*)+&%*^#/>+!%&, and furthermore, *#%$^)*!+*@$%." In other words, you can see the old Bob is re-emerging. He actually made a pretty funny remark, but in an attempt to keep this a "G" rated blog, you'll have to personally ask him what he said next time you see him.
On a serious note, he really is feeling much better. He is anxious about the next surgery mentioned in today's earlier update, but all in all, we and his docs are very pleased. Today, Shelly showed him the blog, including the pics, and she read all your comments to him. He laughed with some, smiled for others and was truly touched by all of them. Keep those cards and letters coming.
We might also mention that Bob's urologist mentioned today that he doesn't think he has ever had a patient with so many people following his progress and concerned about him. (We even heard that some of the people in ICU and elsewhere have accessed the blog to see what all the fuss is about and learn more about Bob.) The doc mentioned that he seems to hear Bob's name wherever he goes. This too brought a smile to our faces. And by the way, we are so grateful to this doctor, Dr. Wang (pronounced "Wong") and all the other medical personnel involved in Bob's care. You have just been so wonderful. You are the Angels on our shoulders. Thank you so much.
Well, in this case, a short update is good news. Wish we had more to share, but then again, we're glad we don't.
Take care and be well.
The Freemans
Bob continues to improve. He is much more alert and his mental state is much improved as the drugs from his surgeries dissipate. In fact, he is feeling so much better, when we asked him what message he would like to send to his friends on the blog, he said, and we quote, "&^$>@!*)+&%*^#/>+!%&, and furthermore, *#%$^)*!+*@$%." In other words, you can see the old Bob is re-emerging. He actually made a pretty funny remark, but in an attempt to keep this a "G" rated blog, you'll have to personally ask him what he said next time you see him.
On a serious note, he really is feeling much better. He is anxious about the next surgery mentioned in today's earlier update, but all in all, we and his docs are very pleased. Today, Shelly showed him the blog, including the pics, and she read all your comments to him. He laughed with some, smiled for others and was truly touched by all of them. Keep those cards and letters coming.
We might also mention that Bob's urologist mentioned today that he doesn't think he has ever had a patient with so many people following his progress and concerned about him. (We even heard that some of the people in ICU and elsewhere have accessed the blog to see what all the fuss is about and learn more about Bob.) The doc mentioned that he seems to hear Bob's name wherever he goes. This too brought a smile to our faces. And by the way, we are so grateful to this doctor, Dr. Wang (pronounced "Wong") and all the other medical personnel involved in Bob's care. You have just been so wonderful. You are the Angels on our shoulders. Thank you so much.
Well, in this case, a short update is good news. Wish we had more to share, but then again, we're glad we don't.
Take care and be well.
The Freemans
Update Tuesday, Feb. 10th
Hello all,
Bob is still in ICU recovering from yesterday's surgery and will remain there for the foreseeable future, at least for a number of days. The three surgical departments who worked on him yesterday (urology, plastic and vascular) all came in today and briefed us on what's next.
Pending receipt of the final pathology reports from tissue removed during surgery yesterday, plans are to cover his wound using either his skin or muscles from within the groin area. The skin option is preferred because it is a less intrusive surgery, which means healing occurs more quickly. The muscle surgery would be the stretching/moving of what is called the rectus muscle to cover the arteries/wound area. A third and much less desirable option is to graft tissue/muscle from another area of his body, which would require extensive suturing of veins for the transplanted tissue. Using skin or tissue/muscle from the groin area is much preferred because it can be moved to cover the wound without detaching it from its current location, hence adequate blood flow would be ensured. Whatever option is used, the surgery will most likely take place two days from now, IF the pathology report doesn't show a need to go back in and remove more cancer first. The surgeons only want to do this once, so there is no sense in covering the wound now and then reopening it for another cancer removal surgery. The overall goal is to get the wound covered, avoid infections and start the chemo treatments.
Bob is now off morphine, at his request, and is receiving lesser pain medications intravenously. He is in pain, but he says it is manageable. His vital signs are all within normal ranges. He is very tired, as we would be were we in his shoes, hence he is still unable to have visitors. He also remains in isolation, although all infectious bacteria cultures taken during yesterday's surgeries came back negative. He also continues to have a normal temperature. All of these are good, and actually amazing signs. He remains on three IV antibiotics as well as other required meds. He is able to eat and drink clear food and fluids. More good news is that he is hungry and would love to have a couple of tacos (perhaps in a couple of days). His color is good and no new transfusions were required yesterday or today. The docs want him to sit up if he can tolerate it and possibly even sit in a chair. A physical therapy regimen was also ordered. We hope he can do that, but it will be a big challenge to do so in the immediate future.
Anyway, that's the latest. We'll post more if anything new develops. In any event, we will continue with our daily updates until we regain a semblance of normalcy.
Oh, and by the way, he smiles when we tell him of your blog messages. Feel free to leave a comment, or even ANOTHER comment if you have already done so.
Thanks again for everything.
The Freemans
Bob is still in ICU recovering from yesterday's surgery and will remain there for the foreseeable future, at least for a number of days. The three surgical departments who worked on him yesterday (urology, plastic and vascular) all came in today and briefed us on what's next.
Pending receipt of the final pathology reports from tissue removed during surgery yesterday, plans are to cover his wound using either his skin or muscles from within the groin area. The skin option is preferred because it is a less intrusive surgery, which means healing occurs more quickly. The muscle surgery would be the stretching/moving of what is called the rectus muscle to cover the arteries/wound area. A third and much less desirable option is to graft tissue/muscle from another area of his body, which would require extensive suturing of veins for the transplanted tissue. Using skin or tissue/muscle from the groin area is much preferred because it can be moved to cover the wound without detaching it from its current location, hence adequate blood flow would be ensured. Whatever option is used, the surgery will most likely take place two days from now, IF the pathology report doesn't show a need to go back in and remove more cancer first. The surgeons only want to do this once, so there is no sense in covering the wound now and then reopening it for another cancer removal surgery. The overall goal is to get the wound covered, avoid infections and start the chemo treatments.
Bob is now off morphine, at his request, and is receiving lesser pain medications intravenously. He is in pain, but he says it is manageable. His vital signs are all within normal ranges. He is very tired, as we would be were we in his shoes, hence he is still unable to have visitors. He also remains in isolation, although all infectious bacteria cultures taken during yesterday's surgeries came back negative. He also continues to have a normal temperature. All of these are good, and actually amazing signs. He remains on three IV antibiotics as well as other required meds. He is able to eat and drink clear food and fluids. More good news is that he is hungry and would love to have a couple of tacos (perhaps in a couple of days). His color is good and no new transfusions were required yesterday or today. The docs want him to sit up if he can tolerate it and possibly even sit in a chair. A physical therapy regimen was also ordered. We hope he can do that, but it will be a big challenge to do so in the immediate future.
Anyway, that's the latest. We'll post more if anything new develops. In any event, we will continue with our daily updates until we regain a semblance of normalcy.
Oh, and by the way, he smiles when we tell him of your blog messages. Feel free to leave a comment, or even ANOTHER comment if you have already done so.
Thanks again for everything.
The Freemans
Monday, February 9, 2009
3rd Update- Out of Surgery- In Recovery
(Written by Bob's brother Bill. Remember, I'm a lawyer, not a doctor, so I hope I got the medical stuff right!!! :-)
Bob came out of surgery around 7 p.m. tonight. Relatively good news in that the docs feel chemotherapy is still warranted.
The docs removed a significant amount of cancerous tissue and they were able to create a "negative margin," which means they were able to get to places where there was no more cancer. It's like clearing the debris around your home to keep fire safe. The fact that they were able to reach the negative margin means, at least for the area in which they operated, they removed as much of the cancer they saw and there is "clean" (non-cancerous) tissue remaining.
Also, while the urologist was performing the cancer surgery, the vascular surgeon was tying off and cleaning up from the artery surgeries. The docs are very pleased with the arterial surgery outcome and don't believe that should be any more arterial problems in his recovery. However, due to the length of this surgery and all the stress caused by the other operations these past 7 days, the docs were unable to close the external wound from the infection and surgical entry site. They were able though, to cover the internal portion of the wound with some of Bob's own muscle. The plastic surgeon will have to handle the external wound in the future before he goes home, but that is a battle for another day.
Barring any unforeseen major complication (such as the second arterial bleed he had last Wednesday), Bob's primary medical provider (his urologist) believes he will eventually make it home after this long recovery process. It is our hope that he heals quickly so that the chemo may begin. Wound healing, no further complications and chemo appear to be his best prescription for recovery. All of his vital signs remain strong, which is very good for a person who has been through what he has.
The road is still long. His recovery and time in ICU and in the hospital remains significant. He is not out of the woods yet, so to speak, so he will continue to need your thoughts and prayers. He remains in isolation and visitors are still limited to immediate family only. Keep checking here for the latest.
Again, our heartfelt thanks.
The Freemans
Bob came out of surgery around 7 p.m. tonight. Relatively good news in that the docs feel chemotherapy is still warranted.
The docs removed a significant amount of cancerous tissue and they were able to create a "negative margin," which means they were able to get to places where there was no more cancer. It's like clearing the debris around your home to keep fire safe. The fact that they were able to reach the negative margin means, at least for the area in which they operated, they removed as much of the cancer they saw and there is "clean" (non-cancerous) tissue remaining.
Also, while the urologist was performing the cancer surgery, the vascular surgeon was tying off and cleaning up from the artery surgeries. The docs are very pleased with the arterial surgery outcome and don't believe that should be any more arterial problems in his recovery. However, due to the length of this surgery and all the stress caused by the other operations these past 7 days, the docs were unable to close the external wound from the infection and surgical entry site. They were able though, to cover the internal portion of the wound with some of Bob's own muscle. The plastic surgeon will have to handle the external wound in the future before he goes home, but that is a battle for another day.
Barring any unforeseen major complication (such as the second arterial bleed he had last Wednesday), Bob's primary medical provider (his urologist) believes he will eventually make it home after this long recovery process. It is our hope that he heals quickly so that the chemo may begin. Wound healing, no further complications and chemo appear to be his best prescription for recovery. All of his vital signs remain strong, which is very good for a person who has been through what he has.
The road is still long. His recovery and time in ICU and in the hospital remains significant. He is not out of the woods yet, so to speak, so he will continue to need your thoughts and prayers. He remains in isolation and visitors are still limited to immediate family only. Keep checking here for the latest.
Again, our heartfelt thanks.
The Freemans
2nd Update- Monday
At 5:50 p.m., still in surgery. Will be there for awhile. More info when available.
Monday, Feb. 9 - 1st Update
Hello All,
It is 4:30 p.m. as we write this. Bob went into surgery at 12:30 this afternoon but no news yet. Keep the prayers coming so the miracles will continue.
All our love from the entire Freeman Family!!
It is 4:30 p.m. as we write this. Bob went into surgery at 12:30 this afternoon but no news yet. Keep the prayers coming so the miracles will continue.
All our love from the entire Freeman Family!!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Hi everyone,
Not a lot new today. Still no fever, wound is healing but still very large; blood sugar normal etc. His blood pressure is stronger than yesterday as is the pulse in his leg. His heart remains strong. Still lots of concern about tomorrow's surgery though. Bob's body has been through an awful lot during the last week, so we all worry about his stamina. Still, he is a bit more coherent in his conversations and appreciates all of your well wishes!! Check here late Monday afternoon or in the evening for an update after the surgery.
Not a lot new today. Still no fever, wound is healing but still very large; blood sugar normal etc. His blood pressure is stronger than yesterday as is the pulse in his leg. His heart remains strong. Still lots of concern about tomorrow's surgery though. Bob's body has been through an awful lot during the last week, so we all worry about his stamina. Still, he is a bit more coherent in his conversations and appreciates all of your well wishes!! Check here late Monday afternoon or in the evening for an update after the surgery.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Update- Saturday, Feb. 7th
Bob continues to take baby steps on his road to recovery. His fever is gone, he is eating, his open wound remains clean and healthy (e.g. the blood is flowing, the tissue is of normal color and there is no sign of infection), and his blood sugar is normal.
His next big challenge is another surgery on Monday, Feb 9, at noon. At that time, the surgeons will perform what they refer to as "debris removal," which includes some clean up from the arterial surgery and removal of as much new cancer as possible. If you recall, his chemo treatments have been postponed since December due to his chronic MRSA infection and the blood clot he had back in January, hence the new growths. The surgeons will also determine if muscle can be taken from another part of his body to be placed over the open wound (from the MRSA infection), so that it will close up and heal properly.
Shelly and the girls and Bob's extended family once again want to thank everyone for their heartwarming support, help and encouragement. Bob wishes he could have visitors, but he remains in ICU and in isolation, plus he simply does not have the strength to carry on conversations.
Speaking of conversations, we want you to know that every once in a while, when he is feeling better, the "old" Bob comes out and we know he is feeling better. For those of you who know Bob well, we need not explain what we mean when we say "the old Bob." ;-) Suffice it to say that he keeps his nurses and doctors laughing!!!
We'll post more info tomorrow or sooner if anything changes.
Thanks again for everything!!!
Bill Freeman
Bob's brother
His next big challenge is another surgery on Monday, Feb 9, at noon. At that time, the surgeons will perform what they refer to as "debris removal," which includes some clean up from the arterial surgery and removal of as much new cancer as possible. If you recall, his chemo treatments have been postponed since December due to his chronic MRSA infection and the blood clot he had back in January, hence the new growths. The surgeons will also determine if muscle can be taken from another part of his body to be placed over the open wound (from the MRSA infection), so that it will close up and heal properly.
Shelly and the girls and Bob's extended family once again want to thank everyone for their heartwarming support, help and encouragement. Bob wishes he could have visitors, but he remains in ICU and in isolation, plus he simply does not have the strength to carry on conversations.
Speaking of conversations, we want you to know that every once in a while, when he is feeling better, the "old" Bob comes out and we know he is feeling better. For those of you who know Bob well, we need not explain what we mean when we say "the old Bob." ;-) Suffice it to say that he keeps his nurses and doctors laughing!!!
We'll post more info tomorrow or sooner if anything changes.
Thanks again for everything!!!
Bill Freeman
Bob's brother
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