Appendix 1
This log began with symptoms beginning in Aug/Sept. 1990 and remains active to the present.
Aug/Sept. 90 Hospitalized with suspected congestive heart failure. With the inability to sleep or lie flat, I had to extract the water build-up. Lasix was prescribed and I was placed on an intravenous. This may have been congestive heart failure, but of all the physicians overseeing my case, the cardiologist was the only specialist who speculated coronary artery disease
These procedural changes caused discomfort since I never knew if
My physicians overseeing my care received the blood test results. I could no
Longer email blood tests results any longer
. Sight in left eye lost as a result of diabetic retinopathy. First laser treatment to left eye from ophthalmologist.
Oct. 90 Received second opinion and medication for heart. A comprehensive analysis (including magnetic resistance imaging- MRI) was performed and the conclusion supported the same speculation of the cardiologist at another center. Received second laser treatment. Visited Diabetic clinic and was told kidney failing; need to control my glucose and blood pressure levels. Experiencing digestive problems, dizziness and diabetic nephrology; the loss of sensation in the feet.
Dec. 90 With continued heart failure symptoms, I decided for cardiac bypass surgery, but the X-rays taken in October were unavailable, apparently, in transit from one center to the other. Coronary bypass surgery will be scheduled when the X-rays are received.
After attending church, I experienced first diabetic coma due to hypoglycaemia,
revived by paramedics.
Jan. 91 Quadruple coronary bypass surgery performed.
Seen by cardiologist for follow-up and for monitoring of blood pressure
levels. Now prescribed three pills for controlling hypertension.
Feb. /April 91 Continued laser treatment at two centers and then visited a
retinal specialist. Received another treatment for both eyes at with follow-up to quadruple bypass surgery...
Began investigating disability benefits with the Teachers Retirement System.
Summer 91 Experienced second diabetic coma; taken to the emergency room and revived.
August 91 As my diabetic condition worsened, I researched transplant centers for information on organ transplantation; investigating potential ones for double transplant (pancreas and kidney).
Oct. 91 Was placed on transplant list at University of Chicago after joining Organ Transport Support group (OTS). I attended an orientation session at the U of Chicago and decided then, since this was still experimental research that I could at least contribute to the database should this be my last resort to remain alive. I was provided a beeper so I could be alerted to respond at anytime were an organ donation is made available for transplantation.
92 Participated with Department of Rehabilative Services for Braille instruction and went to a clinic for low vision. I picked up some devices for
sight assistance. Also contacted and visited the Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind for job assistance. Joined local chapter for National Federation of the Blind.
April 92 Received final laser for right eye as suggested.
Visited a nephrologist at the request of the cardiologist for kidney failure and was advised, as creatinine level was high, that I should begin renal dialysis treatment.
Summer 92 I had informed the school attorney about my need for a kidney/pancreas transplant.
Nausea and dry vomiting was more frequent which began my treatment of Zantac.
Sept. /Oct. 92 I was informed that the use of zantac may have contributed to the tumor that was removed from my left breast. Zantac was discontinued.
I was beginning to experience more diarrhea and nausea symptoms subsequent to kidney failure.
Jan. 93 I was in the hospital and started receiving renal dialysis treatment and had a fistula placed in my left arm. I was also receiving treatment through a shunt placed in the shoulder to draw water from my body.
Stayed off of work for a period of time. Now sought a contract “buy-out” from the local Board of Education (BOE) because of my failing health. I was experiencing a dramatic increased level of stress being caused by some members of board as a result of my absences. The BOE refused my request. I was unable to provide them with an apparent satisfactory proposal.
Feb. 93 Due to an infection through the shunt, I was placed back in the hospital.
At approximately the same time, a vessel in my right eye ruptured; likely as a result of the treatment I received from dialysis for blood thinning. I was temporary blind, but regained some vision in the right eye. Later, I became aware that an optic nerve stroke occurred which may have been caused by high blood pressure.
March/Apr. 93 I experienced more frequency with diarrhea and nausea and was
provided medication for both symptoms.
Began experiencing sores between my toes which were not healing; concerned about potential amputation if gangrene were to take place.
June/July 93 I was called that a potential donor was available for the double transplant and prepared to go into surgery. Unfortunately, the donor’s pancreas was unsuitable. .
Contacted the Teachers Retirement System about disability filing.
Sept. 93 A retina specialist performed eye surgery to right eye because of detached retina. The surgery consisted of removing the calcium build-up and then adding a buckle in the right eye. I told the specialist that I was awaiting a transplant and he said this surgery must be done now should I want to retain what sight I had remaining in my right eye.
Temporarily off work due to call for transplant.
Sept. 26. 93. Underwent kidney/pancreas transplant; surgery was a success. Weekly lab visits were scheduled; I was consuming approximately 53 pills/day for anti-rejection, blood pressure, and heart circulatory conditions.
Remained out of work for another two weeks.
May, 94 Received information from the Teachers Retirement System about filing for disability
June 30, 94 Last work day due to contract non-renewal. The employer was previously informed that I filed under the American Disability Act. When the Act became law, the employer was presented information and told that, under the guidelines, their current Chief Executive Officer falls within this classification.
July 94 Filed for Unemployment Compensation.
Sept. 94 Filed for disability with TRS and was approved.
Oct. 1, 94 Taken off Unemployment Compensation due to disability coverage.
Sept. 26, 94 One year anniversary and medications were reduced to maintenance
level. Amylase ran consistently at 43 since the transplant and now
has reached 379 at reading on Wed., Nov. 2, 1994.
Both the urinalysis and Computer Axial Technology (CAT) scan revealed no information to detect cause; Amylase had been steadily climbing since this date and read 73 at the next lab.
Nov. 1, 94 A biopsy was taken on November 2. The biopsy showed no rejection so an ultra-sound and urine would be taken on Friday, Nov. 4.
Nov. 4, 94 Took labs, urine test, and ultrasound for bladder. Urine test confirmed
bacteria and placed on Cipro 750 mg. for ten days. Results from ultrasound indicated bladder was functioning properly.
Nov. 11, 94 Called to put in Foley-Catheter.
Nov. 14, 94 Took second biopsy since lab results showed 1.6 for creatinine, 23 for BUN, and 327 for Amylase (up from the two previous readings). Added urine test for culture while biopsy showed no rejection. Culture was negative, thus told I should wear catheter for two weeks.
Nov. 28, 94 Removed catheter. Amylase down to 117 from 176 last Monday.
Dec. 7, 94 Amylase down to 77; advised to take labs every other week.
Dec. 21, 94 Amylase down to 52.
: Feb. 15, 95 Glucose reading now is 152 and has steadily increased since infection;
readings have gone to 100, 120, and 120 on Monday. Last test for Amylase indicated 40, creatinine levels at 1.0.
3rd biopsy taken, results were negative.
Mar. 13, 95 Glucose reading was 183 fasting.
Experiencing increased stress from recent death of father, unemployment, litigation resulting for claim of unlawful termination, concerns over future job opportunities.
Apr. 17, 95 Glucose read at 171. Physician wants to take aggressive
approach and check insulin production level, then perhaps pancreas
biopsy. Apparently, stress not contributing factor, however increased weight due to intake of high levels of steroids may be.
Apr. 23, 95 Started weight loss program and exercise. Last 3 days glucose readings
were 116, 111, and today at 110.
Apr. 27, 95 Weight at 170 and glucose at 96.
Scheduled for removal of skin cancer on Tuesday, May 2.
Saw endocrinologist, results of tests and exam returned with no negative findings about pancreatic function.
July 24, 95 Glucose reading at 83 from glucometer.
Aug. 6, 95 Starting 2nd week of “fat burning” diet. Lost four lbs. first week, ending at 166. Glucose read 74 during diet period.
Experienced more energy, less sleep, greater appetite, and increased positive feelings of general well being.
Aug. 26, 95 I weighed in at 161 with approximately two good weeks on diet.
Sept. 19, 95 Saw Ophthalmologist for second opinion; took test to determine if cataract
was cause of blurriness. Because of risk, decision of physician was to
wait until it becomes absolutely necessary to do cataract surgery due
to remaining sight in right eye.
Sept. 26, 95 Second year anniversary of organs transplant.
Nov. 20, 95 Talked to ophthalmologist assistant who said that the
cataract is in the center of visual field. I plan to take a vision
exam tomorrow to see if 20/50 has changed since the blurriness
appears to be getting worse. She again cautioned me, if surgery were
to occur, about the risk involved with blindness due to my past
medical history.
Nov. 21, 95 Vision test reading showed 20/60 vision in right eye.
Nov. 30, 95 Met with Ophthalmologist, who provided a more definitive answer to
possible cataract surgery. He said that he is not concerned about
surgery, but infection may occur some time following. No activity
is prevalent, buckle and laser near mascula under control. As a
specialist who works on difficult cases, he has scheduled a return
visit for Jan.11 to undergo a PAM test and discuss possible surgery.
Dec. 12, 95 Experiencing increased tightening sensation in chest that may indicate a reoccurrence of heart problems that has been going on for some time now. I recall being told that the bypass may only last five years.
Dec. 22, 95 Last night was a difficult night for sleeping. Reoccurring chest pain and
heaviness again. Talked to a nurse and informed her of my symptoms and concern.
Dec. 25, 95 Admitted to Emergency Room (ER) for chest pains. Transported via ambulance to transplant center; scheduled for cardiac catherization exam on the 27th of December.
Dec. 28, 95 Cath… exam indicated a 99% block in one of the vein graphs; angioplasty performed and a stint was inserted. However, during procedure, plaque became dislodged which resulted in a "controlled" heart attack.
The attempt to clear the graft failed (likelihood of this occurring is approximately 1/1000).
Jan. 2, 96 Consideration to undergo catherization for irregular heart beat, but cancelled until further observation of condition revealed.
Jan. 7, 96 Discharged from hospital on Sunday, Jan. 7. Discharged with notices to follow up with cardiology, transplant, and eye clinics.
Noted it is very difficult to see the computer screen; concerned that more damage to right eye may have occurred from heart attack.
Modifications were prescribed for heart condition with a number
of new medications.
Jan. 11, 96 Saw Ophthalmologist and decision was made to schedule cataract surgery for
Monday, January 29. Specialist felt that the time is right and PAM test
showed that 20/30 vision can be restored. Awaiting OK from cardiologist.
As required periodically, provided papers for filing with TRS.
Jan. 17, 96 Got “go ahead” from cardiologist for cataract surgery. Also received papers for
cardiac rehabilitation to begin.
Received papers from a second MD and forwarded to cardiologist for TRS disability.
Jan 26, 96 After meeting with anaesthesiologist, he voiced concerns about a cardiac
reoccurrence, especially since I recently experienced a heart attack, if cataract surgery is undertaken. He feels comfortable in waiting 6 months before the procedure. Ophthalmologist called and agrees, but remains open to express aggressiveness depending upon recovery rate. The cardiologists concur.
Feb. 5, 96 Started 1st day of Cardiac Rehab.
Feb 28, 96 Follow-up visit to Cardiologist indicated that moderate heart attack caused
little, if any, damage and recovery is going well.
Cataract surgery can now be performed.
March 18, 96 Today marked the end of first 6-week period of Cardiac Rehab.
March 25, 96 Missed complete week of Cardiac Rehab due to sickness. Taking 500
mg. of Amoxicillin and Robotusin cough medicine. Must take entire 10- day supply.
April 1, 96 Cataract surgery performed in morning.
Apr. 9, 06 Ophthalmologist said that he plans to take out stitches April 3. Sight should be
restored to at least 20/40, without the aid of eyeglasses.
April 21, 96 Went to optometrist who fitted me for temporary glasses; told
that my periodic blockage in the right eye could result from the packet
that exists where the cataract was removed which may lead to additional
laser surgery. The risk to this step is potential retinal detachment; other risks could be clotting of blood flow or carotid vessels blockage. Decision will be left to eye surgeon.
April 22, 96 The eye surgeon stated that there is a bag but it does not block the central vision area and laser treatment is not necessary. The eye is clear and looks good.
Scheduled an ultra sound test for carotid veins in neck which may be causing blockage problems.
April 30, 96 Took out two stitches from right eye with remaining to be taken out
on May 14th.
Carotid veins showed 50% block in left artery with right being clear; would not then account for vision blockage.
May 14, 1996 Ophthalmologist took out all but one stitch. Prescription modification done. Stigmatism is now at 6, down 3.5 from once we began. Follow up
tentatively set for two weeks depending on visual correction per glasses.
May 15, 1996 Met with Cardiologist regarding heaviness in chest area as a precautionary
measure and received written permission to continue cardiac rehabilitation.
June 11, 1996 Visited Ophthalmologist and took vision field test; revealed a peripheral block in upper
left field which is indicative of an optic nerve stroke which may have
occurred in January 93 while on dialysis. According to Ophthalmologist, stress
is a contributing factor to this possibility.
Sept. 10, 1996 Visited Ophthalmologist for a check-up after I had seen optometrist and retina specialist previous. Ophthalmologist has now agreed to schedule laser surgery of the capsule which may be interfering with visual clarity on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at nine o’clock in morning. He further stated that due to conditional stress, dialysis, the varying levels in blood pressure may have contributed to the optic nerve stroke that was experienced in January 1993.
Sept. 17, 1996 The day after laser surgery has revealed that the cloudiness remains
which now leaves the possibility of either retinal or optic nerve
damage as a permanent condition.
Sept. 24. 1996 Visitation to Ophthalmologist confirmed that the remaining cloudiness (hazy) is
the result of optic nerve stroke. This is a permanent situation which
cannot be corrected.
Nov. 5, 1996 Follow-up visit to Ophthalmologist to determine why it appeared that my sight
has worsened. Another color vision was given with same results and
display of upper sphere damaged by optic nerve stroke. The need
to watch blood pressure and check on retinal area is paramount.
Dec. 27, 1996 Took an echo cardiogram and an ultrasound for abdomen. Ultrasound indicated gall stones.
Cadiologist placed me again on Lasix and insisted on a visit to
the transplant clinic to see transplant surgeon. He further has suggested
that a thallium stress test be taken in mid January to check the
heart.
Jan. 16, 1997 The Thallium stress test is scheduled for Friday, the 31st followed by
visit to cardiology and then a consultation in the Transplant Clinic.
Recommendation from cardiologist is to undergo gallbladder surgery.
Jan. 31, 1997 Underwent a treadmill and more profuse stress test due to my heart
rate now climbing to 164; instead it reached only near 100.
The heart muscle appears strong; however, there is some showing of
significant loss to area where heart attack occurred which could mean
bladder blockage causing lack of blood to that area or damage already
done by previous heart attack. It is imperative that in order to
discover this condition more clearly; an angiogram must be taken again. An
angiogram will be scheduled and if needed, angioplasty will be
performed given a 50/50 chance with a lesser invasive attempt then
done last December.
Gallbladder surgery is a must so during the week of Feb. 10,
Feb. 13. 1997 Angiogram performed and results indicated no problem with
Heart.
Transplant surgeon mentioned the possibility of digestive problems due to diabetes which may be affecting digestion and bloated and nausea symptoms. He will look at ultrasound to determine if any fluid is built up before deciding on gallbladder surgery.
Feb 21, 1997 Gall Bladder surgery performed. Left hospital; unable to urinate with catheter.
March 4. 1997 Went to urology for prostate exam and removal of catheter.
March 13, 1997 I visited the Emergency Room to check on water retention in both ankles and legs in order to determine possible blood clots or possible long term effect of
lasix.
March 25, 1997 Prescribed medication to be taken four times a day to help the food
move around for digestive problems that now are prevalent called
Propulsid.
April 2, 1997 Blood tests indicate glucose level at 95, but creatinine is 1.4 which may
signify water retention occurring even after exercise. Weight
could contribute as stomach has really ballooned.
April 28, 1997 Scheduled for an upper gastrointestinal endoscope examination to determine cause of excessive bloating. Results indicated a recommendation to
either wear a patch or take bi-weekly shots to help the movement of food through digestive tract which has been impacted over the years from diabetes
Lasix has been increased to 40 mg. when necessary with tapering off as indicated.
Experiencing continued aches and pains in lower extremities. Circulation to legs is impacted by effects of diabetes and poor circulation results in aches and pains when over exertion occurs.
May 7. 1997 Legs and body ache continues as does pain in lower back. Rehab today
was quite difficult.
Aug 31, 1977 End of Medicare Insurance coverage as primary carrier.
Sept. 9, 1977 In my visit with gastrointestinal specialists, it was recommended cutting back
on Propulsid as first step which may help current digestive issue. Eventually,
Miralax was prescribed to facilitate movement in the digestive tract.
Sept. 16, 97 Assistant recommended that I begin taking Milk of Magnesia. No other medications are available for this present condition. .
Jan. 28, 98 Confirming my recent visit to optometrist, Ophthalmologist reinforced the
fact that as an aftermath, which usually he views from much older patients,
is forming due to the surgery. This growth can block the central vision area. In time this growth will need to be lasered when it is appropriate.
Oct. 12, 98 I called my primary physician and informed him that this continual coughing with sinus drainage has not changed much since having taken more than 3 weeks of antibiotics Still difficulty sleeping at night as this now has lingered on for more than 6 weeks. He has now prescribed some new drugs which contain an antihistamine and congestion combined in one.
Nov. 11, 98 Walking remains difficult with pain and stiffness occurring as usual.
The cardiologist noted this may be the result of hardening of the
arteries in my legs.
Feb. 15, 99 I saw an ear, throat, and nose (ENT) specialist, who scoped the nasal passage and suggested a sinus MRI. Upon reception of the x-rays, antibiotics and nasal spray was prescribed for a two week period. Further investigation may result.
March 2, 99 My visit to ENT presented another final attempt with an increased
dose of antibiotics and another nasal spray. If this does not help and the
level of discomfort remains, the scrapping (surgery) the nasal area is
a possible next step.
March 11.99 The ENT went over surgical procedure and then prescribed a different
antibiotic to see if that may make a difference.
March 18, 99 Conducted a medicated stress test and on March 25, the results were no
different than the one taken two years ago.
June, 99 Saw optometrist again for yearly check-up and received a new prescription
for eyewear. More glairiness is taking place and measures are being
employed to reduce the reflection issue and stigmatism through the
selection of plastic versus high index lenses.
August 2, 1999 Informed that the Federal judge rejected the summary judgment of the
defendant and has set a “settlement” meeting for August 26th at
2:00 p.m. before the case goes to jury trial.
September 7, 1999 Visited Ophthalmologist for yearly check-up and asked whether the secondary
cataract ought to be removed to reduce glairiness. Due to the optic
nerve stroke and delayed receptor reaction, the removal of such
would more than likely make no difference. He also ruled out
the new laser RK treatment for patients like me since
there has been damage to my retina and the result will
cause more glare. The use of anti-reflective devices and the
covering of blocked rays by use of Polaroid deflectors are the
best that can be done.
November 12, 1999 Visited 2 nephrologists who will monitor my progress. An additional test was added for blood results and my Prednisone was reduced from 10mg. to 7.5mg.
March 21, 2000 Nurse from cardiology called and reviewed the lab report
thereby reducing my cyclosporine dosage to 125/100 per day. I had told
her of the symptoms and the email I sent yesterday and
she was to set the date for the stress test and urologist. The symptoms
include frequent episodes of nausea and infrequent shortages of breathe
on the treadmill at cardiac rehabilitation.
May 12, 2000 Saw the nephrologist who has recommended that Propulsid be lowered and
then discontinued due to known side effects. Wants to add fiber by taking
Metamucil nightly. Ordered some blood exams to recheck the Cyclosporine level. Previous to this visit, a stress test was completed.
May 15, 2000 Visited cardiologist who reviewed the stress test and reported that
a build-up is reoccurring in the back of the heart artery which once
was previously clogged. He wanted an X-ray and Echo done for further
information which may lead to an angiogram and possibly second bypass
operation. His immediate plan is to continue medication.
Visited urologist who completed a digital exam and found an
abnormal prostate (firm or hard) and recommended a biopsy be done.
He did notice an enlarged prostate and was informed of forced urination
episodes. A PSA test was done as well. He did provide sample medications which may help the urination flow and it to be taken nightly.
July 10, 2000 Reoccurring digestive problems continue with bloating, lack
of bowel movement though the addition of Metamucil without
Propulsid seems to have helped.
Aug 30, 2000 Last day attending cardiac rehabilitation due to a change in insurance
carriers from Western Illinois School Benefits Association (Wisba) to Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Illinois; BC/BS now becomes the primary
insurance carrier.
Checking into local fitness program; average cost of $77/semester.
Sept 3, 2000 Started the first activity at the fitness center and
experienced the “squeezing effect” while on the treadmill
at around the 7th minute. This was done after the cycle was
completed. Emailed cardiologist on Monday, Sept. 5.
Sept. 7, 2000 Took blood tests as prescribed and will complete angiogram scheduled for Wednesday, September 13.
Sept. 16, 2000 Results of angiogram indicated that graft, where angioplasty was
performed, has reclogged; possibly beginning as early as 1997. The 3 other grafts are functioning while a diminished bump flow is now reported. Unless
cardiologist feels otherwise, no surgery is needed at this time.
Jan. 14, 2002 I have continued my attending religiously the physicians monitoring
my care and have modified some of the medications I take. Lotensin
has been dropped and replaced by Hydrocholorizide via the advice
of the nephrologist.
I am also attending the fitness center fpur times a week for aerobics exercises lasting over 1 hour each visit.
Aug. 12, 2002 After visiting the endocrinologist, I took a body density scan and spinal scan which determined pockets of arthritis and confirmed a breakdown of bone structure. As a result, I am taking Oscal (2xday) and Fosamax to help build bone structure. With the addition of Oscal, the periodic digestive
gastric issue has resolved itself even though Raglan was provided as a possible treatment for modifying the gastric issue. These tests will be administered each year.
September 20, 2004 Have now included the Multiple Vitamin Daily Supplement into my dietary regimen. The initial reaction seems to be more vigor. The cramping in the legs has stopped, perhaps due to the herbal ingredients.
February 2, 2005 Basal cell cancer removed from upper eye area on right side of face.
Additionally, I have been seeing a Dermatology team for nearly 1 year for removal of warts and other skin conditions, primarily caused by sustained use of anti-rejection drugs.
February 3, 2005 Went into ER due to soreness and pain in left foot. X-rays proved negative; however, an infection was shown between the two smaller toes. Neosporin and antibiotics and pain reliever were prescribed.
February 13th, 2005 After I made an emergency visit to a vascular surgeon about this continued pain, I called to determine what could be done since the pain that morning required some form of support. Advil was recommended at 80mg per day and that eliminated most pain, swelling, and redness.
Doppler and carotid tests are scheduled for Thursday, February 17 in the vascular clinic.
March 2, 2005 Went to have basal cell removed from face for the second time. First removal was done in 95. Since the demand of his skill makes it very difficult to make appointments, I am using a different surgeon this time.
May 16, 2005 Began taking a chlorestol pill 20mg prescribed by cardiologist
due to elevated readings. This medication has been working well for
better blood flow with heart transplant patients.
An echocardiogram was set to be taken in June and monitoring of more frequent angina which can indicate that grafts may be worse now than
when the last angiogram was done.
June 20, 2005 With persistent pain in chest area, especially when I sit back in chair
or drive vehicle, cardiologist has set a Nuclear Stress