Monday, January 21, 2008
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Are We Havin' Fun or What ???
Cheetah World Champ Moulis,Gazell & Doug:
Bill Pfister & Doug first win:
D'Anabelle,Patel & Doug:
Richie Sutphen & Doug:
Pat Patel & Doug after setting the Mod Kilo in Sarasota:
Bill Pfister & Doug first win:
D'Anabelle,Patel & Doug:
Richie Sutphen & Doug:
Pat Patel & Doug after setting the Mod Kilo in Sarasota:
Sunday, August 1, 2004
A Legend of Offshore Racing "Doug Lewis" 1953-2004
The multi time Offshore World Champion Doug Lewis found himself with the challenge of a lifetime. With his strength and determination he won a few more years to spend with us before he ultimately lost his battle with cancer.
There is an incredible story here of his fight to beat the disease.
Throughout his treatments for 2 years, Sharkey kept documenting every update he would receive from Doug's wife Leeanne.
He has built this webpage in tribute to Doug to honor and preserve his memory forever.
He hopes many people will read his story and perhaps leave some comments or thoughts of Doug that can be displayed here on this page. If anyone has photos they would like to share here, Sharkey will be glad to post them for you.
Please send photos to sharkeytributes@yahoo.com
Thank you!
There is an incredible story here of his fight to beat the disease.
Throughout his treatments for 2 years, Sharkey kept documenting every update he would receive from Doug's wife Leeanne.
He has built this webpage in tribute to Doug to honor and preserve his memory forever.
He hopes many people will read his story and perhaps leave some comments or thoughts of Doug that can be displayed here on this page. If anyone has photos they would like to share here, Sharkey will be glad to post them for you.
Please send photos to sharkeytributes@yahoo.com
Thank you!
Saturday, July 31, 2004
Story on Doug from the Asbury Park Press
Toughness, expertise helped boat racer win multiple championships, widow recalls
Published in the Asbury Park Press 7/30/04 By ED PRINCE STAFF WRITER
TOMS RIVER -- In 1999, Douglas Lewis and a friend were testing a power boat that they had just outfitted for racing when a gust of wind caught the craft and flipped it. At 180 mph, the resulting crash injured Lewis's friend and almost killed Lewis, his wife, Leeanne, said yesterday. After a hospital stay and rehabilitation, Lewis returned to his longtime passion, racing boats, and the following year throttled the same boat to victory in a competition, his wife said. It was that same tenacity that enabled Lewis win multiple power boat racing world championships and return to racing after he was diagnosed with cancer and underwent major surgery. Lewis died Tuesday at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, at age 51 after a four-year battle with multiple myeloma. Leeanne Lewis recalled her husband's career in an interview following his death. Lewis began his competitive career in the late 1970s with drag boat racing, but became expert in a wide variety of powerboat categories and raced throughout the United States and in the Middle East, his wife said. A former racer herself, Leeanne Lewis said she and her husband met in 1989 while competing against each other. They were married in 1991. "He was fierce," she said when asked what it was like to race her future husband. "He was the kind of guy that a lot of people begrudgingly respected." What made her husband stand out -- and annoyed some competitors -- was his honesty, she said. Lewis adamantly refused to cheat by using over-large engines in his boats, instead relying on an intimate knowledge of the latest technology to squeeze as much power out of his regulation-size engines as possible, Leeanne Lewis said. Because of his expertise, Lewis was recruited to race in the Mideast, where power boat racing was becoming popular. Operating three boats for a wealthy Mercedes Benz dealer and shipping magnate in Dubai, he spent about three months each year there from 1996 to 2001, his wife said. But in 2000 Lewis was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a rare and aggressive form of bone marrow cancer. In January 2001, Lewis underwent surgery to remove a femur and hip bone and replace them with internal prostheses. He resumed racing in March of that year and finished the season. But in December 2001, he was rediagnosed with cancer and in 2002 underwent chemotherapy, his wife said. In addition to racing, Lewis also owned and operated Professional Marine Racing, a business in Brick catering to people with high-performance boats, Leeanne Lewis said. Lewis would take boat hulls provided by manufacturers and outfit them with high-power motors and other equipment, she said. Leeanne Lewis outlined her husband's succession of world and other championships: 1989, Pro Stock Division World Championship in Konkrete Kat, serving as crew chief and throttleman. Also the same year with the same boat, he won the Northeast Division, New Jersey Governor's Cup and North American Championship. 1989, Stock World Championship in Great Adventure, serving as crew chief and throttleman. He and his crew outfitted the boat only a week before the race. 1990, Pro Stock World Championship in Insanity, serving as crew chief 1992, B Class World Championship in Buckshot, serving as crew chief and throttleman. He also won Northeast Division and National titles that year. 1994, Pro Stock World Championship in Terminator, serving as crew chief and throttleman. His team also won Northeast Division that year. 1998, Modified World Championship and Northeast Division, in In Contempt, serving as crew chief and throttleman. 1999, F-2 Division World Championship and Southeast in Team Sutphen 2000, Super V Light World Championship in Shock Wave. In 1999, Lewis accomplished a feat never done before or since in powerboat racing, his wife said: he set two kilo (time trial) records in two different classes and then won both races, all in two days. Also that year, he was named the American Power Boat Association's Throttleman of the Year.
Published in the Asbury Park Press 7/30/04 By ED PRINCE STAFF WRITER
TOMS RIVER -- In 1999, Douglas Lewis and a friend were testing a power boat that they had just outfitted for racing when a gust of wind caught the craft and flipped it. At 180 mph, the resulting crash injured Lewis's friend and almost killed Lewis, his wife, Leeanne, said yesterday. After a hospital stay and rehabilitation, Lewis returned to his longtime passion, racing boats, and the following year throttled the same boat to victory in a competition, his wife said. It was that same tenacity that enabled Lewis win multiple power boat racing world championships and return to racing after he was diagnosed with cancer and underwent major surgery. Lewis died Tuesday at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, at age 51 after a four-year battle with multiple myeloma. Leeanne Lewis recalled her husband's career in an interview following his death. Lewis began his competitive career in the late 1970s with drag boat racing, but became expert in a wide variety of powerboat categories and raced throughout the United States and in the Middle East, his wife said. A former racer herself, Leeanne Lewis said she and her husband met in 1989 while competing against each other. They were married in 1991. "He was fierce," she said when asked what it was like to race her future husband. "He was the kind of guy that a lot of people begrudgingly respected." What made her husband stand out -- and annoyed some competitors -- was his honesty, she said. Lewis adamantly refused to cheat by using over-large engines in his boats, instead relying on an intimate knowledge of the latest technology to squeeze as much power out of his regulation-size engines as possible, Leeanne Lewis said. Because of his expertise, Lewis was recruited to race in the Mideast, where power boat racing was becoming popular. Operating three boats for a wealthy Mercedes Benz dealer and shipping magnate in Dubai, he spent about three months each year there from 1996 to 2001, his wife said. But in 2000 Lewis was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a rare and aggressive form of bone marrow cancer. In January 2001, Lewis underwent surgery to remove a femur and hip bone and replace them with internal prostheses. He resumed racing in March of that year and finished the season. But in December 2001, he was rediagnosed with cancer and in 2002 underwent chemotherapy, his wife said. In addition to racing, Lewis also owned and operated Professional Marine Racing, a business in Brick catering to people with high-performance boats, Leeanne Lewis said. Lewis would take boat hulls provided by manufacturers and outfit them with high-power motors and other equipment, she said. Leeanne Lewis outlined her husband's succession of world and other championships: 1989, Pro Stock Division World Championship in Konkrete Kat, serving as crew chief and throttleman. Also the same year with the same boat, he won the Northeast Division, New Jersey Governor's Cup and North American Championship. 1989, Stock World Championship in Great Adventure, serving as crew chief and throttleman. He and his crew outfitted the boat only a week before the race. 1990, Pro Stock World Championship in Insanity, serving as crew chief 1992, B Class World Championship in Buckshot, serving as crew chief and throttleman. He also won Northeast Division and National titles that year. 1994, Pro Stock World Championship in Terminator, serving as crew chief and throttleman. His team also won Northeast Division that year. 1998, Modified World Championship and Northeast Division, in In Contempt, serving as crew chief and throttleman. 1999, F-2 Division World Championship and Southeast in Team Sutphen 2000, Super V Light World Championship in Shock Wave. In 1999, Lewis accomplished a feat never done before or since in powerboat racing, his wife said: he set two kilo (time trial) records in two different classes and then won both races, all in two days. Also that year, he was named the American Power Boat Association's Throttleman of the Year.
Thursday, July 29, 2004
Doug's Obituary in the Asbury Park Press
DOUGLAS K. LEWIS, 51, of TOMS RIVER Published in the Asbury Park Press 7/29/04
DOUGLAS K. LEWIS, 51, of TOMS RIVER, died Tuesday, July 27, at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune. Born in Biloxi, Miss., he grew up in Woodbury and resided in the Shore area for the past 15 years. He was the owner of Professional Marine Racing of Brick. He was a seven-time World Power Boat Champion. He also owned and operated a shop for race boats in the Persian Gulf for several years. He was predeceased by his mother, Joan Kramer Lewis. Surviving are his wife, Leeanne Carpenter Lewis; two daughters, Lisa Potter of Woodbury, and Kelley Schemeley of Swedesboro; a son, Daniel P. Lewis of Woodbury; his father, Douglas Harvey Lewis of West Deptford; four grandchildren, BJ, Branden, Taylor, and Brianna; two sisters, Kathleen Ward of Woodbury, and Irene Lewis of Cherry Hill; a brother, William Lewis of Yardville; and many nieces and nephews. Visiting hours will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at the Ely Funeral Home, 3316 Route 33, Neptune. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 14, at the Presbyterian Church of Toms River, Hooper Avenue, Toms River. In lieu of flowers, donations to the International Myeloma Foundation, 12650 Riverside Drive, Suite 206, North Hollywood, CA 19607, would be appreciated.
DOUGLAS K. LEWIS, 51, of TOMS RIVER, died Tuesday, July 27, at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune. Born in Biloxi, Miss., he grew up in Woodbury and resided in the Shore area for the past 15 years. He was the owner of Professional Marine Racing of Brick. He was a seven-time World Power Boat Champion. He also owned and operated a shop for race boats in the Persian Gulf for several years. He was predeceased by his mother, Joan Kramer Lewis. Surviving are his wife, Leeanne Carpenter Lewis; two daughters, Lisa Potter of Woodbury, and Kelley Schemeley of Swedesboro; a son, Daniel P. Lewis of Woodbury; his father, Douglas Harvey Lewis of West Deptford; four grandchildren, BJ, Branden, Taylor, and Brianna; two sisters, Kathleen Ward of Woodbury, and Irene Lewis of Cherry Hill; a brother, William Lewis of Yardville; and many nieces and nephews. Visiting hours will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at the Ely Funeral Home, 3316 Route 33, Neptune. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 14, at the Presbyterian Church of Toms River, Hooper Avenue, Toms River. In lieu of flowers, donations to the International Myeloma Foundation, 12650 Riverside Drive, Suite 206, North Hollywood, CA 19607, would be appreciated.
Tuesday, July 27, 2004
Update from Leeanne Lewis
I just received confirmation from Leeanne of Doug's passing.
"Doug passed away at 11:05 PM, Tuesday, July 27. After he is cremated a memorial service will be held. I'll let you know the details in a few days. Thanks for all your encouragement and concern during this time. Leeanne"
The Offshore Community has lost yet another incredible icon. Doug has taught me many things over the years. As often as time allowed, we would work together in the Dyno room. I'd give a hand here and there with rigging, and many years back I would do all his glass work for him. I enjoyed the times working side by side with him. His ideas seemed endless. The most notable time was when he & I finished the "new design" Cheetah Cat just a few days before the World Championships in Key West, and the boat walked away with the Championship in Stock Class that year. Doug, I will cherish the times we spent. I am sure you are already rigging a one of the largest Skaters for the "BIG GUY" up in the sky.... God Bless You! We will meet again...... You will be missed and not forgotten...
A viewing will be held on Friday night July 30th 7pm to 9pm @
Ely Funeral Home 3316 State Route 33 Neptune, NJ 07753-3441 Phone: (732) 918-6650.
The Memorial Service for Doug will be at 10:00 AM on Saturday August 14th 2004. Details to come...
"Doug passed away at 11:05 PM, Tuesday, July 27. After he is cremated a memorial service will be held. I'll let you know the details in a few days. Thanks for all your encouragement and concern during this time. Leeanne"
The Offshore Community has lost yet another incredible icon. Doug has taught me many things over the years. As often as time allowed, we would work together in the Dyno room. I'd give a hand here and there with rigging, and many years back I would do all his glass work for him. I enjoyed the times working side by side with him. His ideas seemed endless. The most notable time was when he & I finished the "new design" Cheetah Cat just a few days before the World Championships in Key West, and the boat walked away with the Championship in Stock Class that year. Doug, I will cherish the times we spent. I am sure you are already rigging a one of the largest Skaters for the "BIG GUY" up in the sky.... God Bless You! We will meet again...... You will be missed and not forgotten...
A viewing will be held on Friday night July 30th 7pm to 9pm @
Ely Funeral Home 3316 State Route 33 Neptune, NJ 07753-3441 Phone: (732) 918-6650.
The Memorial Service for Doug will be at 10:00 AM on Saturday August 14th 2004. Details to come...
Monday, July 12, 2004
Update from Leeanne Lewis
Hi,
Doug had a setback today. They lowered his sedative dose and because he was conscious and able to communicate, he wanted his vent tube removed. When it wasn't he got very agitated to the point where his blood pressure jumped up to 160/101 and his heart rate 141. In response to that outburst they increased his dose and knocked him back out. He isn't ready to come off yet. The doc did a sonogram of his liver area and it shows some blood around his lung and diaphragm. He's still draining. Tonight they are doing some more testing to be certain he isn't bleeding elsewhere internally. I should know something tomorrow when I see the docs in the AM. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.
Thank you.
Leeanne
Doug had a setback today. They lowered his sedative dose and because he was conscious and able to communicate, he wanted his vent tube removed. When it wasn't he got very agitated to the point where his blood pressure jumped up to 160/101 and his heart rate 141. In response to that outburst they increased his dose and knocked him back out. He isn't ready to come off yet. The doc did a sonogram of his liver area and it shows some blood around his lung and diaphragm. He's still draining. Tonight they are doing some more testing to be certain he isn't bleeding elsewhere internally. I should know something tomorrow when I see the docs in the AM. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.
Thank you.
Leeanne
Sunday, July 11, 2004
Update from Leeanne Lewis
Hi All,
Doug is hanging tough. They lowered the sedative some more and I was able to communicate with him a bit by hand squeezing. The next couple of days will be important ones - the docs hope to remove the ventilator. His vital signs remain stable and he looks good even with all the wires, hoses and tubes coming out of him. It's been another long day so I'm calling it a night so I can get an early start and meet the doctors first thing in the AM. Thanks for your concern. Leeanne
Doug is hanging tough. They lowered the sedative some more and I was able to communicate with him a bit by hand squeezing. The next couple of days will be important ones - the docs hope to remove the ventilator. His vital signs remain stable and he looks good even with all the wires, hoses and tubes coming out of him. It's been another long day so I'm calling it a night so I can get an early start and meet the doctors first thing in the AM. Thanks for your concern. Leeanne
Saturday, July 10, 2004
Update from Leeanne Lewis
Hi Everyone,
Doug is still stable. They've lowered his sedative. Today when I got there I told him he was doing great and said that if he understood me to squeeze my finger...he did! They were doing dialysis early in the AM, no plasmaphersis pending test results. They've started some of the new chemo drugs. He moved his head a bit in my direction when I changed to the other side of the bed. He actually tried to shift positions and get up. All good indicators that he is aware that I am there and is very unhappy about being tied down. Beyond that there is nothing else to report. The oncologist came and confirmed that Doug is indeed doing great. It is all we can hope for right now. They are taking good care of him (now). Don't know yet when they plan on pulling him out of this coma. I suspect sometime early in the week. Naturally I plan on being there to make sure everyone does their job right and things go smoothly! ;o) We don't want or need anymore screw ups.
That's it. I hope everyone is enjoying this beautiful weather we're having.
Thanks for your continued prayers and well wishes.
He isn't out of the woods by a looooooong mile yet.
Leeanne
Doug is still stable. They've lowered his sedative. Today when I got there I told him he was doing great and said that if he understood me to squeeze my finger...he did! They were doing dialysis early in the AM, no plasmaphersis pending test results. They've started some of the new chemo drugs. He moved his head a bit in my direction when I changed to the other side of the bed. He actually tried to shift positions and get up. All good indicators that he is aware that I am there and is very unhappy about being tied down. Beyond that there is nothing else to report. The oncologist came and confirmed that Doug is indeed doing great. It is all we can hope for right now. They are taking good care of him (now). Don't know yet when they plan on pulling him out of this coma. I suspect sometime early in the week. Naturally I plan on being there to make sure everyone does their job right and things go smoothly! ;o) We don't want or need anymore screw ups.
That's it. I hope everyone is enjoying this beautiful weather we're having.
Thanks for your continued prayers and well wishes.
He isn't out of the woods by a looooooong mile yet.
Leeanne
Friday, July 9, 2004
Update from Leeanne Lewis
Hi Everyone,
Another long day in ICU. Doug is still on a ventilator. The doc said less is more right now for him. He remains stable and looks great (all things considered). Today they did dialysis and plasmaphersis again and gave him another 4 bags of platelets. His IGa numbers are coming down and his kidneys are beginning to produce. Another surgeon insisted they remove this silly little tube they installed to take blood samples with. It has been a major problem since they put it in - it leaked like a sieve and a lot of the transfusions went in his arm came out there. So they put a 10 lbs. sand bag on Doug's groin to stem the bleeding. Finally a doc got smart and deleted both the problem (bleeding) AND the sandbag! They installed a feeding tube today and will give him something to eat tonight. Doug hasn't had any food in 2.5 weeks due to tests that required an empty stomach then he got that awful thrush that closed his throat down - then of course there was everything that happened this week. They lowered his oxygen level on the ventilator as in beginning to wean him off of it. It will be a few days yet but he is doing incredibly well. The nurses said he responded a bit last night (in their words he was extremely agitated) during repositioning him and he wasn't liking it - A GOOD THING!
I'll keep you posted.
Thanks again to you all for your support during this stressful time.
Leeanne
Another long day in ICU. Doug is still on a ventilator. The doc said less is more right now for him. He remains stable and looks great (all things considered). Today they did dialysis and plasmaphersis again and gave him another 4 bags of platelets. His IGa numbers are coming down and his kidneys are beginning to produce. Another surgeon insisted they remove this silly little tube they installed to take blood samples with. It has been a major problem since they put it in - it leaked like a sieve and a lot of the transfusions went in his arm came out there. So they put a 10 lbs. sand bag on Doug's groin to stem the bleeding. Finally a doc got smart and deleted both the problem (bleeding) AND the sandbag! They installed a feeding tube today and will give him something to eat tonight. Doug hasn't had any food in 2.5 weeks due to tests that required an empty stomach then he got that awful thrush that closed his throat down - then of course there was everything that happened this week. They lowered his oxygen level on the ventilator as in beginning to wean him off of it. It will be a few days yet but he is doing incredibly well. The nurses said he responded a bit last night (in their words he was extremely agitated) during repositioning him and he wasn't liking it - A GOOD THING!
I'll keep you posted.
Thanks again to you all for your support during this stressful time.
Leeanne
Thursday, July 8, 2004
Update from Leeanne Lewis
Hi Everyone,
Today was an extremely ugly day that could have been a lot worse. Most of you know that Doug went into respiratory failure while having dialysis early this AM - only a few hours after I left him at 6 AM. They put a ventilator tube down his throat immediately and rushed him into surgery. The doctors performed a new procedure using a very slim gizmo to find the source of where his liver was bleeding AFTER injecting dye into him. They found the source, which coincidentally was the site of his liver biopsy and plugged it with a special foam. Afterwards they installed a drainage tube in his upper abdomen to relieve the area of the accumulated blood that they had been transfusing into him. By doing this it allowed his lungs to return to their proper position and he could breathe. Doug is currently in ICU in a chemically induced coma on a ventilator (to give his lungs a break from the trauma they've been going through since last Saturday). This happened almost without warning and we are fortunate that they were able to figure out the problem instantly. The doctors are pleased with their handy work and are optimistic about his recovery. He is stabile and looks wonderful (compared to the past several days). His skin is normal now in color and is warm instead of cold and clammy. I was told even though he couldn't respond to me that he could hear everything I or anyone else was saying so I told him he was doing great and that everyone loves and wants him to get better soon. A tear rolled down his cheek. He will not remember any of this when they bring him out of it. Please don't come visit yet he's far from out of the woods. As I said he is in ICU and visiting hours are strict and limited. There is no point since he is not in any condition to talk. The plan is to continue dialysis and plasmaphersis throughout the night and after 24 hours bring him out of his fugue to assess his mental state. If he is coherent enough they will remove the ventilator and let him breathe on his own. Everyone is cautious and with good reason. In a few days they will begin a new regiment of chemo. Hopefully this one will work better than the last two. Thank you all again for your prayers, emails and phone calls.
I'll try to keep everyone updated as I learn more.
Leeanne
Today was an extremely ugly day that could have been a lot worse. Most of you know that Doug went into respiratory failure while having dialysis early this AM - only a few hours after I left him at 6 AM. They put a ventilator tube down his throat immediately and rushed him into surgery. The doctors performed a new procedure using a very slim gizmo to find the source of where his liver was bleeding AFTER injecting dye into him. They found the source, which coincidentally was the site of his liver biopsy and plugged it with a special foam. Afterwards they installed a drainage tube in his upper abdomen to relieve the area of the accumulated blood that they had been transfusing into him. By doing this it allowed his lungs to return to their proper position and he could breathe. Doug is currently in ICU in a chemically induced coma on a ventilator (to give his lungs a break from the trauma they've been going through since last Saturday). This happened almost without warning and we are fortunate that they were able to figure out the problem instantly. The doctors are pleased with their handy work and are optimistic about his recovery. He is stabile and looks wonderful (compared to the past several days). His skin is normal now in color and is warm instead of cold and clammy. I was told even though he couldn't respond to me that he could hear everything I or anyone else was saying so I told him he was doing great and that everyone loves and wants him to get better soon. A tear rolled down his cheek. He will not remember any of this when they bring him out of it. Please don't come visit yet he's far from out of the woods. As I said he is in ICU and visiting hours are strict and limited. There is no point since he is not in any condition to talk. The plan is to continue dialysis and plasmaphersis throughout the night and after 24 hours bring him out of his fugue to assess his mental state. If he is coherent enough they will remove the ventilator and let him breathe on his own. Everyone is cautious and with good reason. In a few days they will begin a new regiment of chemo. Hopefully this one will work better than the last two. Thank you all again for your prayers, emails and phone calls.
I'll try to keep everyone updated as I learn more.
Leeanne
Update by Leeanne Lewis
Hi,
Doug continues to hold on and fight. No athlete I know of could endure what he is going through and remain as steadfast and focused on his goal. I stayed with him until 6AM and then went home to change and go back. He's in renal failure but the doc believes given time and with Doug's sheer willpower can possibly bring them back. He'll be having another round of dialysis today then more plasmaphersis. They infused 2 more compacted units of red cells and 2 more bags of plasma. He was still bleeding freely from the groin area where they put the catheter in that dialyzes him. He was having difficulty breathing even with oxygen so I requested that a doc come up and see him. Doug is understandably very anxious and said so (the reason for the out-of-breath feeling). The doc said there was no significant fluid in his lungs or around his heart. They took some x-rays to confirmed that. He asked for some Jell-O around 2:30 AM which we stole from another floor. I'm sorry I can't call each and every one of you, especially you Lisa, Kelley and Dan. Please know that I care and that I'm trying the best I can to be there for your Dad. With a little bit of luck, lots of love and a whole lot of prayers - we can get him to Seattle yet. No one is giving up - especially your father.
Thank you everyone for your role in our lives.
Leeanne
Doug continues to hold on and fight. No athlete I know of could endure what he is going through and remain as steadfast and focused on his goal. I stayed with him until 6AM and then went home to change and go back. He's in renal failure but the doc believes given time and with Doug's sheer willpower can possibly bring them back. He'll be having another round of dialysis today then more plasmaphersis. They infused 2 more compacted units of red cells and 2 more bags of plasma. He was still bleeding freely from the groin area where they put the catheter in that dialyzes him. He was having difficulty breathing even with oxygen so I requested that a doc come up and see him. Doug is understandably very anxious and said so (the reason for the out-of-breath feeling). The doc said there was no significant fluid in his lungs or around his heart. They took some x-rays to confirmed that. He asked for some Jell-O around 2:30 AM which we stole from another floor. I'm sorry I can't call each and every one of you, especially you Lisa, Kelley and Dan. Please know that I care and that I'm trying the best I can to be there for your Dad. With a little bit of luck, lots of love and a whole lot of prayers - we can get him to Seattle yet. No one is giving up - especially your father.
Thank you everyone for your role in our lives.
Leeanne
Sunday, July 4, 2004
Update from Leeanne Lewis
Hi,
Doug is gravely ill and back in the hospital. This AM they did a liver biopsy. After numerous tests this past week something showed up on an x-ray. No one is sure yet what we're dealing with this time. It could be nothing or something. They discontinued his chemo because it isn't working any longer. The docs said that his cancer treatment will be secondary to this new acute liver problem. Once that is dealt with, they'll resume with new meds. He also has what appears to be thrush. By Wednesday we should know more. Please, remember him in your prayers. He needs them now more than ever.
Thank you.
Leeanne
Doug is gravely ill and back in the hospital. This AM they did a liver biopsy. After numerous tests this past week something showed up on an x-ray. No one is sure yet what we're dealing with this time. It could be nothing or something. They discontinued his chemo because it isn't working any longer. The docs said that his cancer treatment will be secondary to this new acute liver problem. Once that is dealt with, they'll resume with new meds. He also has what appears to be thrush. By Wednesday we should know more. Please, remember him in your prayers. He needs them now more than ever.
Thank you.
Leeanne
Wednesday, May 12, 2004
Hello to All !,
As some of you are already aware, Doug is home, AGAIN! He came home at 6 PM last night. I let him sleep in today ;o). He'll be on IV antibiotics that I will administer for 10 days. If at the end of that period his fever returns, they will remove the port. He looks pretty good and says other than being tired, feels the same way. Let's all hope and pray that this was the last side trip he'll make. Thanks to all of you for your prayers, love and thougthfulness during this ordeal. I'll continue to send updates.
Leeanne
As some of you are already aware, Doug is home, AGAIN! He came home at 6 PM last night. I let him sleep in today ;o). He'll be on IV antibiotics that I will administer for 10 days. If at the end of that period his fever returns, they will remove the port. He looks pretty good and says other than being tired, feels the same way. Let's all hope and pray that this was the last side trip he'll make. Thanks to all of you for your prayers, love and thougthfulness during this ordeal. I'll continue to send updates.
Leeanne
Thursday, May 6, 2004
Update from Leeanne Lewis
Hi Everyone,
Just came home from the hospital and thought I'd fire off a quick note before going to bed. Doug has gotten 2 units of blood so far. The infectious disease doctor is almost 90% sure Doug has some kind of staph infection (not good). They already started antibiotics for that yesterday and tomorrow they are running another round of blood cultures to be certain. They think the problem is coming from the Quinton port. If so, they will remove it. We've been told it will be a long fight to rid his blood of this infection. Doug remains in fairly high spirits and looks better since getting the transfusions. He'll probably get another tomorrow. I'm sorry I can't call each of you individually but time doesn't allow it between working and spending all evening with Doug. Remember him in your prayers.
Thanks.
Leeanne
Just came home from the hospital and thought I'd fire off a quick note before going to bed. Doug has gotten 2 units of blood so far. The infectious disease doctor is almost 90% sure Doug has some kind of staph infection (not good). They already started antibiotics for that yesterday and tomorrow they are running another round of blood cultures to be certain. They think the problem is coming from the Quinton port. If so, they will remove it. We've been told it will be a long fight to rid his blood of this infection. Doug remains in fairly high spirits and looks better since getting the transfusions. He'll probably get another tomorrow. I'm sorry I can't call each of you individually but time doesn't allow it between working and spending all evening with Doug. Remember him in your prayers.
Thanks.
Leeanne
Wednesday, May 5, 2004
Update from Leeanne Lewis
Doug was doing pretty well the last couple of months. Until I just received this update from Leeanne, he is having complications again...
To All:
Once again I'm sorry for the impersonal nature of email but with so many friends and family who care about Doug and the short period of time I have to contact everyone, here goes. Doug was hospitalized today (5/4) because of extremely high fevers (104.3). The doctors have already tested him 7 ways from Sunday to uncover the problem. Nothing conclusive, however, they believe it is the catheter in his chest that is causing the problem. We've been told that is quite common. Doug is already receiving antibiotics for a bacterial infection and has had a chest x-ray to rule out pneumonia. He'll be receiving some much needed transfusions tomorrow too. Doug is in Brick Hospital, room 474 but please don't call him (yet). He isn't up to talking or receiving visitors. Hopefully he'll be home by the weekend (wishful thinking?), at least he says that's when he's coming home. We'll see. You know Doug is NEVER wrong!!! Mistaken maybe, but never WRONG. As always, please remember Doug in your prayers. It's still an uphill battle and the war isn't over yet. We sincerely appreciate all your concern and well wishes. I'll keep you posted as I learn more.
Thank you and good night.
Leeanne
To All:
Once again I'm sorry for the impersonal nature of email but with so many friends and family who care about Doug and the short period of time I have to contact everyone, here goes. Doug was hospitalized today (5/4) because of extremely high fevers (104.3). The doctors have already tested him 7 ways from Sunday to uncover the problem. Nothing conclusive, however, they believe it is the catheter in his chest that is causing the problem. We've been told that is quite common. Doug is already receiving antibiotics for a bacterial infection and has had a chest x-ray to rule out pneumonia. He'll be receiving some much needed transfusions tomorrow too. Doug is in Brick Hospital, room 474 but please don't call him (yet). He isn't up to talking or receiving visitors. Hopefully he'll be home by the weekend (wishful thinking?), at least he says that's when he's coming home. We'll see. You know Doug is NEVER wrong!!! Mistaken maybe, but never WRONG. As always, please remember Doug in your prayers. It's still an uphill battle and the war isn't over yet. We sincerely appreciate all your concern and well wishes. I'll keep you posted as I learn more.
Thank you and good night.
Leeanne
Friday, February 27, 2004
Update from Sharkey
Hi Everyone:
Doug is still running hot. 102.3 He has spoken with his doctors out in Seattle, and they suggested to take him off the meds he is on. They feel that may be the cause of the fevers. Unfortunately, it may take some time to get the meds out of his system. Now it is a waiting game. Once the fever comes down, they can make their next move.
Sharkey
Doug is still running hot. 102.3 He has spoken with his doctors out in Seattle, and they suggested to take him off the meds he is on. They feel that may be the cause of the fevers. Unfortunately, it may take some time to get the meds out of his system. Now it is a waiting game. Once the fever comes down, they can make their next move.
Sharkey
Saturday, February 21, 2004
Update from Leeanne & Sharkey
Up until December 2003, Doug has been doing great. I have since received this letter from his wife Leeanne. Please keep them both in your prayers. Doug is strong and a fighter. He is doing the best he can do as best as he knows how.
God Bless him........
Sharkey
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Hi Everyone:
Doug was [finally] hospitalized this afternoon after battling erratic fevers for 3 weeks (103.7 to 93 all in the same day). Long story short, he has some kind of infection (which we knew he must have) but the docs haven't isolated it yet. They have already started the blood cultures and chemistries and done several x-rays. He will be receiving a transfusion in the AM. His red count is in the toilet at 7.5 so he's a bit fatigued and white. They had to call Philadelphia for a unit of blood because they found an odd antibody in his that couldn't be matched locally. We were told it is normal to find this in a transplant patient?!? He ate a decent dinner (if you can call hospital food decent) and was watching TV when I left him around 7PM. I believe we're both a bit relieved that he's finally going to get some medical attention after the past two weeks of: 1) his primary oncologist going vacation for 2 weeks and totally blowing off the fevers Doug has been having, and 2) an appt. with another oncologist on Friday who was reluctant to get involved with Doug and his issues in order NOT to "hurt" Dr. Manzullo's feelings by taking his patient away. Urrgh.......... Hopefully now we'll get him back on track to start the chemo and knock his cancer right back into remission! Seattle is talking about another transplant "down the road," but hopefully the Thalidomide and Dexamethasone with do the trick for a while. He remains optimistic and cheerful even in this situation. He is Community Medical Center, Route 37, Toms River, NJ 08753, Room 4213B. Thanks for your continued prayers and well wishes. We both appreciate them. I'll keep you all posted.
Good night.
Leeanne
God Bless him........
Sharkey
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Hi Everyone:
Doug was [finally] hospitalized this afternoon after battling erratic fevers for 3 weeks (103.7 to 93 all in the same day). Long story short, he has some kind of infection (which we knew he must have) but the docs haven't isolated it yet. They have already started the blood cultures and chemistries and done several x-rays. He will be receiving a transfusion in the AM. His red count is in the toilet at 7.5 so he's a bit fatigued and white. They had to call Philadelphia for a unit of blood because they found an odd antibody in his that couldn't be matched locally. We were told it is normal to find this in a transplant patient?!? He ate a decent dinner (if you can call hospital food decent) and was watching TV when I left him around 7PM. I believe we're both a bit relieved that he's finally going to get some medical attention after the past two weeks of: 1) his primary oncologist going vacation for 2 weeks and totally blowing off the fevers Doug has been having, and 2) an appt. with another oncologist on Friday who was reluctant to get involved with Doug and his issues in order NOT to "hurt" Dr. Manzullo's feelings by taking his patient away. Urrgh.......... Hopefully now we'll get him back on track to start the chemo and knock his cancer right back into remission! Seattle is talking about another transplant "down the road," but hopefully the Thalidomide and Dexamethasone with do the trick for a while. He remains optimistic and cheerful even in this situation. He is Community Medical Center, Route 37, Toms River, NJ 08753, Room 4213B. Thanks for your continued prayers and well wishes. We both appreciate them. I'll keep you all posted.
Good night.
Leeanne
Saturday, February 8, 2003
Doug and Leeanne were spotted at the NJPPC party in Atlantic City.
I had the previlage to share a table with them both.
Doug is doing well.
He was very touched by the club issueing him the "Inspiration Award" for Doug's strength and positive attitude to fight his illness.
Doug will be heading to Florida for a few days for the Miami Boat Show and then he is off to Seattle once again for his 6 month checkup.
Doug has asked the President of NJPPC, Dave Patnuade for his expertise in organizing Skaterfest once again.
The event is scheduled for June 7th & 8th, 2003. Mark your calendars !
Sharkey
I had the previlage to share a table with them both.
Doug is doing well.
He was very touched by the club issueing him the "Inspiration Award" for Doug's strength and positive attitude to fight his illness.
Doug will be heading to Florida for a few days for the Miami Boat Show and then he is off to Seattle once again for his 6 month checkup.
Doug has asked the President of NJPPC, Dave Patnuade for his expertise in organizing Skaterfest once again.
The event is scheduled for June 7th & 8th, 2003. Mark your calendars !
Sharkey
Monday, January 13, 2003
Update by Sharkey
I had the pleasure to see Doug back at his shop over the holidays. He was just getting over a cold but he sure looked great.
He clued me in on all the details of the SKATER VEE BOTTOM and yes, he was testing it in Key West. I wish I could have spent the rest of the day at the shop, but I was only there for my all too brief lunch hour.
It was great to see him back in the swing of things.
He and Leeanne had just purchased a townhouse in Toms River and are in the process of settling in.
I hope to see Doug pull out all the stops this Spring and bring on the SKATERFEST 2003.
If I hear of any date if it were to take place, I will be sure to get the word out.
Stay tuned...
Sharkey
He clued me in on all the details of the SKATER VEE BOTTOM and yes, he was testing it in Key West. I wish I could have spent the rest of the day at the shop, but I was only there for my all too brief lunch hour.
It was great to see him back in the swing of things.
He and Leeanne had just purchased a townhouse in Toms River and are in the process of settling in.
I hope to see Doug pull out all the stops this Spring and bring on the SKATERFEST 2003.
If I hear of any date if it were to take place, I will be sure to get the word out.
Stay tuned...
Sharkey
Sunday, December 15, 2002
Update
Doug was spotted in Key West for the APBA World Championship races.
Word has it, he is doing well......
Word has it, he is doing well......
Tuesday, October 29, 2002
Update from Doug & Leeanne
We're coming home! The doctors released Doug from the "Hutch" at 1:00 p.m. today; we leave for NJ tomorrow morning. Doug is in total remission! While he still has a long recuperation period ahead, he has already made tremendous progress in regaining his energy and strength. The doctors told us "he turned the corner quickly". Doug doesn't have to come back to Seattle until next September for his first anniversary check up.
Thanks to ALL of you for helping to make his treatment possible. We couldn't have done it without any of you. Doug and I will never forget the outpouring of concern and well wishes, the love, the caring or thoughtfulness that you sent our way. We especially thank you for your generosity whether it was time spent sending us email or funny stories, calling on the cell or donating to the Doug Lewis MM Foundation; for everything we are truly grateful and indebted to each of you.
Thank you from both of us.
Doug & Leeanne Lewis
Thanks to ALL of you for helping to make his treatment possible. We couldn't have done it without any of you. Doug and I will never forget the outpouring of concern and well wishes, the love, the caring or thoughtfulness that you sent our way. We especially thank you for your generosity whether it was time spent sending us email or funny stories, calling on the cell or donating to the Doug Lewis MM Foundation; for everything we are truly grateful and indebted to each of you.
Thank you from both of us.
Doug & Leeanne Lewis
Monday, October 7, 2002
Update from Leeanne Lewis
Hi Everyone!
Doug was released from the hospital this afternoon after 10 days. He was admitted due to a high fever (104.7) of unknown origin. The poor guy was subjected to more intense tests and CAT scans that all revealed - NOTHING! That's the good news. He has no hidden problems, so that is a great relief to me. Now that his temps are back to normal the docs believe he had a reaction to the antiobiotics they were giving to prevent him from getting any infections while his immune system was down. We learned he has drug allergies the hard way!
Thank you all so much for staying in touch with us while we're in Godforsaken SEATTLE. I've printed your get well wishes and have read them all to Doug. They also help me feel a more connected to the "real" world.
As some of you may already know, the docs anticipate our going home in 2-3 weeks provided, of course, no more surprises come up. Doug needs a couple more days before he'll begin to feel more like himself. After that you can call him on his cell phone at (732) 995-#### if you'd like to say hi.
That's it from not-so sunny Seattle.
Thank you all again and stay in touch!
Leeanne
Doug was released from the hospital this afternoon after 10 days. He was admitted due to a high fever (104.7) of unknown origin. The poor guy was subjected to more intense tests and CAT scans that all revealed - NOTHING! That's the good news. He has no hidden problems, so that is a great relief to me. Now that his temps are back to normal the docs believe he had a reaction to the antiobiotics they were giving to prevent him from getting any infections while his immune system was down. We learned he has drug allergies the hard way!
Thank you all so much for staying in touch with us while we're in Godforsaken SEATTLE. I've printed your get well wishes and have read them all to Doug. They also help me feel a more connected to the "real" world.
As some of you may already know, the docs anticipate our going home in 2-3 weeks provided, of course, no more surprises come up. Doug needs a couple more days before he'll begin to feel more like himself. After that you can call him on his cell phone at (732) 995-#### if you'd like to say hi.
That's it from not-so sunny Seattle.
Thank you all again and stay in touch!
Leeanne
Tuesday, September 17, 2002
A Message from "T2x" Rich Luhrs
Houston We have ignition....... Doug Lewis has completed stage 3 of 3
Leeann advised that the "Champ" has completed the 3rd stage of his Multiple Myeloma Treatment:
Stage1 (Thursday 9/12): Cutting age Homium Treatment that links radioactive isotopes to cancer seeking drug particles. Using a precisely timed half life formula this brings strong "juice" to all active cancer sites and does a thorough job of stomping on any active disease cells........ Doug spent most of a day in a lead lined room for this one....Hot stuff...... I swear to you he was up talking props within hours.
Stage 2 (Sunday (9/15). Massive Chemo dose irradicates all living bone marrow....and then he called the shop.
Stage 3 (Tuesday 9/17) Reintroduction of his own stem cells (auto-transplant). Doug now has to reconstruct his internal immune system from scratch................ I believe he has decided to do this in half the normal time, because .......... He's Doug.
Fellow OSO'ers you can talk all you want about the "Legends of Offshore"...and I knew/know most of them............... With all that, this is the most single minded, courageous display of grit and focus I've ever had the privelege to be a part of.
We love ya buddy............... Now get home and fix Bud's transmission.
T2x
Leeann advised that the "Champ" has completed the 3rd stage of his Multiple Myeloma Treatment:
Stage1 (Thursday 9/12): Cutting age Homium Treatment that links radioactive isotopes to cancer seeking drug particles. Using a precisely timed half life formula this brings strong "juice" to all active cancer sites and does a thorough job of stomping on any active disease cells........ Doug spent most of a day in a lead lined room for this one....Hot stuff...... I swear to you he was up talking props within hours.
Stage 2 (Sunday (9/15). Massive Chemo dose irradicates all living bone marrow....and then he called the shop.
Stage 3 (Tuesday 9/17) Reintroduction of his own stem cells (auto-transplant). Doug now has to reconstruct his internal immune system from scratch................ I believe he has decided to do this in half the normal time, because .......... He's Doug.
Fellow OSO'ers you can talk all you want about the "Legends of Offshore"...and I knew/know most of them............... With all that, this is the most single minded, courageous display of grit and focus I've ever had the privelege to be a part of.
We love ya buddy............... Now get home and fix Bud's transmission.
T2x
Update from Leeanne & Doug
Hi Everyone:
Today was the day that each of you helped make happen. Doug's transplant was completed at 11:04 a.m. PT. At the moment he's snoozing off some of the drugs they've given him to reduce the effects of the preservative used to freeze his cells. (The preservative smells like creamed corn and has permeated the entire room and everything in it!) He is doing well and is expected to keep doing well. The doctors have told us that he is an extraordinary person and patient (but we all knew that).
The next 10 days are critical in that it takes that long for his new stem cells to start producing white cells that make up his immune system. The gentleman that had this same protocol before Doug was not hospitalized during his treatment, and of course Doug being the competitive person he is, has decided to accept this challenge and also stay out of the hospital although it is quite common to go in.
It is too soon to anticipate when we will get Doug's "walking" papers but we should know in about 2 more weeks based on how well he is doing and if he had to be hospitalized for any infections. A tentative date is sometime in October.
Please be sure to pass the good word. Thanks again for everything each of you has done to make this all possible. Doug and I are extremely grateful to each of you for your generosity, thank you from the bottom of our heart.
Leeanne & Doug
Today was the day that each of you helped make happen. Doug's transplant was completed at 11:04 a.m. PT. At the moment he's snoozing off some of the drugs they've given him to reduce the effects of the preservative used to freeze his cells. (The preservative smells like creamed corn and has permeated the entire room and everything in it!) He is doing well and is expected to keep doing well. The doctors have told us that he is an extraordinary person and patient (but we all knew that).
The next 10 days are critical in that it takes that long for his new stem cells to start producing white cells that make up his immune system. The gentleman that had this same protocol before Doug was not hospitalized during his treatment, and of course Doug being the competitive person he is, has decided to accept this challenge and also stay out of the hospital although it is quite common to go in.
It is too soon to anticipate when we will get Doug's "walking" papers but we should know in about 2 more weeks based on how well he is doing and if he had to be hospitalized for any infections. A tentative date is sometime in October.
Please be sure to pass the good word. Thanks again for everything each of you has done to make this all possible. Doug and I are extremely grateful to each of you for your generosity, thank you from the bottom of our heart.
Leeanne & Doug
Wednesday, September 4, 2002
Update from Leeanne Lewis
Doug is doing great.
Transplant is scheduled for Sept. 18. He passed several tests that have allowed him to become the fifth recipient of a new radioactive drug being tested in a phase 2 study around the country.
So far so good.
Transplant is scheduled for Sept. 18. He passed several tests that have allowed him to become the fifth recipient of a new radioactive drug being tested in a phase 2 study around the country.
So far so good.
Friday, July 12, 2002
Update from Leeanne Lewis
Dear Offshore Friends,
This latest news brings us a bit behind schedule. We are waiting for the insurance co. to approve the transplant. Actually the reason we are behind is because an EKG was performed at the clinic and the doctor didn't like the results so she sent Doug to an outside consultant to do an echo. Needless to say they erred on the side of caution and Doug's ticker is just fine.
All other test performed in preparation of the transplant have come back extremely good. Doug is very healthy (except for one minor detail - MM). They anticipate hearing soon and have scheduled his Hickman implant for Tuesday. Meanwhile we're cooling our jets in Seattle. Being "sleepless" here is not a problem. I suspect we're getting too much from inactivity. Even though Doug says he feels great, he's slowing down. Walking for long periods tires him out. We've seen some of the major attractions and then some. Yesterday we took a 2 hour lake cruise which we both thoroughly enjoyed. We haven't decided what to do today or for the rest of the weekend for that matter. We were kind of hanging around waiting to see if we got a call saying everything was a go.
You would have laughed! Doug REALLY threw the doctor with all of his medical knowledge about his disease. They got into a discussion on cells and mutation etc. You had to see the expressions on his AND the faces of the nurses and physician's assistant...PRICELESS!
We are always glad to hear from you. Please continue to keep in touch and we will keep you posted as things progress. Like I said, right now we are in a holding pattern but the hospital said it is not unusual for the insurance co. to take a week to send back the approval. They are not anticipating and problems. Hope to hear from you soon! Please email Doug with your wishes and latest racing highlights from your teams at DKLSLEWIS@aol.com
Leeanne Lewis
This latest news brings us a bit behind schedule. We are waiting for the insurance co. to approve the transplant. Actually the reason we are behind is because an EKG was performed at the clinic and the doctor didn't like the results so she sent Doug to an outside consultant to do an echo. Needless to say they erred on the side of caution and Doug's ticker is just fine.
All other test performed in preparation of the transplant have come back extremely good. Doug is very healthy (except for one minor detail - MM). They anticipate hearing soon and have scheduled his Hickman implant for Tuesday. Meanwhile we're cooling our jets in Seattle. Being "sleepless" here is not a problem. I suspect we're getting too much from inactivity. Even though Doug says he feels great, he's slowing down. Walking for long periods tires him out. We've seen some of the major attractions and then some. Yesterday we took a 2 hour lake cruise which we both thoroughly enjoyed. We haven't decided what to do today or for the rest of the weekend for that matter. We were kind of hanging around waiting to see if we got a call saying everything was a go.
You would have laughed! Doug REALLY threw the doctor with all of his medical knowledge about his disease. They got into a discussion on cells and mutation etc. You had to see the expressions on his AND the faces of the nurses and physician's assistant...PRICELESS!
We are always glad to hear from you. Please continue to keep in touch and we will keep you posted as things progress. Like I said, right now we are in a holding pattern but the hospital said it is not unusual for the insurance co. to take a week to send back the approval. They are not anticipating and problems. Hope to hear from you soon! Please email Doug with your wishes and latest racing highlights from your teams at DKLSLEWIS@aol.com
Leeanne Lewis
Wednesday, July 10, 2002
Leeanne Addresses Offshore Community
Dear Offshore Racing Friends,
Thanks for all your hard work on our behalf. Throughout this whole experience it amazes me how truly good most people are when the chips are down for others. I believe that "what goes around, comes around" and that somewhere down the road we all get paid back accordingly.
Doug is still standing and smiling. His sense of humor has inspired a lot of us. Inspite of his illness he still finds the funny side of his situation and takes time to laugh; otherwise we'd be crying constantly. Today, we meet with the head transplant doctor. She'll go over the results of all the tests Doug has had since we arrived. Tomorrow, he'll have surgery to remove his present chemo-port in his shoulder. Then, they will implant a Hickman catheter into his chest for the next phase of his treatment. He'll undergo mobilization chemotherapy 24/7 to make his body produce extra stem cells. Once he reaches an acceptable level, they'll harvest them, cleanse and cryo-freeze them until the transplant.
After the harvest, he will have to recuperate for one month. In mid-August he'll be hospitalized for 4 weeks in isolation. He'll be given a "killer" dose of chemo that will kill off ALL of his marrow. Two days later they'll reinject him with his cleaned up marrow. Once he starts showing signs of reproduction (week 3) they'll begin to prepare him to go back to the real world.
We have to still stay in Seattle for another month while he's monitored at the clinic. After that, if all goes according to plan, he'll get his walking papers to go home (possibly sometime in October). That's just about it in a nutshell. Doug thinks about racing, all of his friends and acquaintants all the time. He misses it and you all. He was loved to hear from all of you, if you have the time. Please email Doug at DKLSLEWIS@aol.com
Thanks for your inquiries. We will give you updates as we journey deeper into his treatment. Doug wants you to know that he thinks of you often and wishes you all safe racing!
Leeanne Lewis
Thanks for all your hard work on our behalf. Throughout this whole experience it amazes me how truly good most people are when the chips are down for others. I believe that "what goes around, comes around" and that somewhere down the road we all get paid back accordingly.
Doug is still standing and smiling. His sense of humor has inspired a lot of us. Inspite of his illness he still finds the funny side of his situation and takes time to laugh; otherwise we'd be crying constantly. Today, we meet with the head transplant doctor. She'll go over the results of all the tests Doug has had since we arrived. Tomorrow, he'll have surgery to remove his present chemo-port in his shoulder. Then, they will implant a Hickman catheter into his chest for the next phase of his treatment. He'll undergo mobilization chemotherapy 24/7 to make his body produce extra stem cells. Once he reaches an acceptable level, they'll harvest them, cleanse and cryo-freeze them until the transplant.
After the harvest, he will have to recuperate for one month. In mid-August he'll be hospitalized for 4 weeks in isolation. He'll be given a "killer" dose of chemo that will kill off ALL of his marrow. Two days later they'll reinject him with his cleaned up marrow. Once he starts showing signs of reproduction (week 3) they'll begin to prepare him to go back to the real world.
We have to still stay in Seattle for another month while he's monitored at the clinic. After that, if all goes according to plan, he'll get his walking papers to go home (possibly sometime in October). That's just about it in a nutshell. Doug thinks about racing, all of his friends and acquaintants all the time. He misses it and you all. He was loved to hear from all of you, if you have the time. Please email Doug at DKLSLEWIS@aol.com
Thanks for your inquiries. We will give you updates as we journey deeper into his treatment. Doug wants you to know that he thinks of you often and wishes you all safe racing!
Leeanne Lewis
Wednesday, July 3, 2002
Update from Leeanne Lewis
Once again, thank you so very much!
Doug had numerous x-rays today and (more) blood work done. For the next couple of days we do nothing. Monday we meet with "THE DOCTOR" to discuss the outcome of all the tests and where we're going from here. Wednesday he'll have a Hickman installed under the skin of his chest to make large volume passage of fluids possible. They'll start giving him drugs to mobilize the production of more bone marrow cells for harvesting. After that he done he'll be given a reprieve for one month before he'll into the hospital for a large dose of "killer" chemo.
I'll keep you updated.
Again, thanks to you and all those that care.Leeanne Lewis
Doug had numerous x-rays today and (more) blood work done. For the next couple of days we do nothing. Monday we meet with "THE DOCTOR" to discuss the outcome of all the tests and where we're going from here. Wednesday he'll have a Hickman installed under the skin of his chest to make large volume passage of fluids possible. They'll start giving him drugs to mobilize the production of more bone marrow cells for harvesting. After that he done he'll be given a reprieve for one month before he'll into the hospital for a large dose of "killer" chemo.
I'll keep you updated.
Again, thanks to you and all those that care.Leeanne Lewis
Tuesday, July 2, 2002
Update from Leeanne Lewis
Sharkey: Thank you so much for your help. Please tell everyone for us that their thoughtfulness is sincerely and deeply appreciated.
Doug is currently undergoing a battery of tests and x-rays. He has decided to become part of the ongoing clinical studies performed here with the hope that new research for a breakthrough will not only benefit him but others with MM. His actual transplant is scheduled for mid-August. Right now they are establishing a baseline and will prepare him for harvesting of bone marrow within the next couple of weeks. Then he must recuperate from that before they can give him a big dose of chemo and radiation to kill off all of his bone marrow before reinjecting his own, cleansed marrow back.
Thanks again to you and all the others that are helping to make this transplant possible.
Leeanne Lewis
Doug is currently undergoing a battery of tests and x-rays. He has decided to become part of the ongoing clinical studies performed here with the hope that new research for a breakthrough will not only benefit him but others with MM. His actual transplant is scheduled for mid-August. Right now they are establishing a baseline and will prepare him for harvesting of bone marrow within the next couple of weeks. Then he must recuperate from that before they can give him a big dose of chemo and radiation to kill off all of his bone marrow before reinjecting his own, cleansed marrow back.
Thanks again to you and all the others that are helping to make this transplant possible.
Leeanne Lewis
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