CarmenNotes

The final day with my mom.

2010-07-21T11:59:00.000-07:00

Is there an interest is having this blog continue?
I just want to thank everyone for the support during this very difficult transition. The service at Our Lady of Malibu Church was so beautiful and to see the church filled with my moms wonderful friends and relatives is something I will treasure.
I really want everyone to know how my mom spent her last day. I was with her from July 5th to July 10th. On her last day, July 10th she walked outside with me and enjoyed the sun on her face. She said we needed to come outside everyday. She sipped on some tea and ate about 4 tablespoons of Cream of Wheat. We were outside for about an hour and she asked me to read from the bible. I am not too familiar with the bible and where to find stories so I just started turning the pages and began reading. I ended up reading a story about Jesus on his last day before his crucifixion. My mother asked me what I thought of that story. She then shared her thoughts and said how amazing it was that Jesus, knowing he would be crucified the following day, he was still able to help the people and continued healing others. I then read to her from a book that shares stories about people who are facing their loved ones on their last day. The stories were so touching and I could not get through the stories without tears in my eyes and a lump in my throat. She loved hearing the stories about people right before they die. This was the first day I believe my mom actually accepted that she was still alive. She was hoping for her own death the entire week. She wanted to go and she wanted the suffering to stop. On Saturday she said, "well, I guess I am going to be here a while." I agreed. I really thought I was going to have her at least another week. My mom then went inside for a short nap, her friend Elizabeth arrived, my mom watched a movie and she ate saltine crackers and chicken broth. My mom also had a strawberry popsicle which she said was very yummy and if I could make sure there were more of those for the next day. My mom was so peaceful all day. She was eating, drinking, talking and participating in life. She was so alive. I had decided to leave at 4:00 to head home and take care of my own life, but told her I would return in a few days. Her friend Elizabeth stayed the night with my mom and for that I am so thankful. I felt so at peace with my mom and her condition that day when I left. My mom did have a look of question when I said I would see her in a couple days, but she did not ask me to stay. The day before she had said I should go home and be with my husband. That was the first time she had said I could leave. After I left, her cousin Ronnette came for a visit and my mom wanted a Starbucks latte. I don't know if she ever drank that latte because she did get nauseous later on. She shared with Ronnette the song that Quincy, Jen, my mom and I had written, End of the Road. Her and Elizabeth then had many conversations and my mom went to sleep. At one in the morning my mom awoke and said she was having trouble breathing. She was given oxygen, a dose of morphine and a hand to hold so she knew she was not alone. She couldn't quite catch her breath, but she was still talking and living. She then took four large breaths and passed away around 1:30 a.m. on July 11th.
After all of the suffering my mom went through the past 3 years with the cancer I am so thankful she did not have any further suffering. Her last day was so peaceful, she was so ready to be with Jesus. She had accepted everything and gave the process to God. I have never met anyone who truly had accepted Jesus the way my mother had. I am so thankful I was able to spend the last six days of my mothers life with her. I am truly blessed. Thank you mom for showing me how to be brave. Thank you mom for sharing your friends with me, they love you so much. I will miss you, but I know you are not that far away. Maybe you are here right now making sure I say all the right things. I am sure once a mother always a mother. Say hello to Grandpa, tell him the beach party was just as he planned. Was that you who turned the music up at Charlou's?
Love always, Kelly

1-17-48 to 7-11-10

2010-07-13T06:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends of Carmen,
My mother passed away on July 11 from the complications of cancer. There is so much to share. What I need to share is how honored I am to know my mother was loved by so many. Thank you for all of the support. She is now free from suffering and I know she is in a better place. She can now play her music forever, swim in the sea, and walk the beaches without every getting tired. She shared that my grandfather (her deceased father) had come to visit her just days before her passing. She told me that he was having a party for her at the beach house. She was so happy to share this. She also thought we should take a train to Starbucks to get a latte. Well, her last day and one of the last things she requested was a Starbucks green tea latte. I want to appreciate Elizabeth who was with my mom during her final moments. Thank you Elizabeth, it means more to me than anyone will know that my mother was not alone during that time. I want to thank Leni and Gilbert who took care of my mom at the home. They both took care of each and every need my mother had no matter what time of day or night. Thank you Leni and Gilbert. Thank you Arthur for having such a wonderful home where my mom felt peace and comfort knowing she was taken care of. Love and prayers to each and every one who had a special place in their heart for mom. I love you mom, say hello to grandpa from me.

Kelly

Services for Carmen will be on July 17 at 10:00 a.m at Our Lady of Malibu Church, Malibu, CA. A reception will follow at 22000 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. We are having a potluck please contact Kris Larronde at 310-968-5293 or Robin Zimmerman at 310-488-2735 if you can contribute. Also, in lieu of flowers we are asking if donations can be made to Our Lady of Malibu Church in honor of Carmen Dragon.

Some of you have asked for my address which is: Kelly Arbaut, 29801 S. Lower Valley Rd. Tehachapi CA 93561. You can also send correspondents to Quincy Carroll at the same address.

Peaceful

2010-07-09T19:40:00.000-07:00

My mom has an amazing nurse who is a nephew of Deepok Chopra, his name is Shev Chopra. He is handsome and she is in love. He comes to give her a full body massage with lavendar oil. She is so very relaxed after this treatment. Hospice has such a great support system for both my mom and our family.
The cards she has received offer so much support for my mom. She knows that she is loved. She is thankful for your sincerity and at peace with the "goodbyes".
My mom is sleeping more and talking less, but know that she is not in pain and seems very peaceful. She had a few sips of liquid today and requested Oswalla lemonade. She likes frozen coke ice cubes which makes me laugh since my mom has never been a coke drinker. She says the cancer craves the sugar.
You can send an email to my account at kmarbaut@sbcglobal.net or send a card to 1109 E. Homestead Rd., Sunnyvale CA 94087.
Thank you for all of the positive comments on this blog.
Love and peace to all of you.

Sunnyvale update

2010-07-04T19:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends of Carmen,

I so appreciate the support from everyone. During this time, my mom needs her rest and is not answering her phone for that reason. If you would like to contact Carmen please send a card to her Sunnyvale address. You can also reach me by email as I know everyone wants to know updates. My email is kmarbaut@sbcglobal.net. Please know that I will now be spending as much time as possible with my mom and when I can respond to an email I will take time to do that.

Have you ever noticed how bright even the smallest light looks when everything outside is dark? In turbulent times, share your light. No matter how little you think you have, it will shine bright. --Zen Life, Daniel Levin

Mom, you are still shining bright. I love you!

Kelly

HOSPICE

2010-06-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends and Family of Carmen,

The ever changing world of cancer has come to another chapter. My mom is currently at Domincan Hospital, but will be moving Monday, June 28th to assisted living where she can be close to my brother. She will have hospice and a full time caregiver. The cancer has advanced once again and now the focus is on comfort and not treatment. My brother, his wife and myself will all stay with her through this very difficult time. My mother loves to receive cards and her new address is Micro Star Care Home, 1109 E. Homestead, Sunnyvale, CA 94087. Your continued support to her at this time has been appreciated beyond words.

Sincerely, Kelly Arbaut

Girls in Malibu

2010-06-21T17:15:00.000-07:00

Just spent a week in Malibu at Charlous house on the beach. Everyday I took walks, saw good friends (about 15), from grade school, high school, and even had breakfast with Monseignor Sheridan and Sister Mary from my old Catholic school; Our Lady of Malibu. It was very rejuvenating and healing to see everyone and reconnect. I was really blessed to be able to be picked up and delivered to Malibu by Robin, and then driven home by my daughter Kelly and grandson Sean.
I finished my second round of chemo this morning, and didn't feel as nauseated and my doctor thinks I'm doing well and getting the old 'life force' back. Still have pain in my abdomen though.

The inevitable

2010-05-27T17:15:00.000-07:00

The doctor decided to start the new chemo regimen today. It's called: Alimta, and it's a newer drug mainly for lung cancer. They got the results back from my CT scan and blood work, and the news wasn't too good. There are new cancers in my back in the lymphnodes, and the ones in my abdomen have multiplied. The CA 125 shot way up to 7,000 (normal range is between 1-35). The chemo wiped me out and I am now resting. I will try and drive to Malibu on June 13 with Kathy Roberts and visit for about 5 days; probably stay at Charlou's house. Will keep in touch!
Aloha!

A Day Out in Monterey

2010-05-07T16:53:00.000-07:00

A Wonderful Day Out
Went to Monterey and met Vicki at an ACQUA show (water-conservation). She's a big wig with the company so she treated me to a special luncheon, then we just hung out in her room at the Pacific Hotel (my friend Sally, was there too). We had the fire-place going and just lay around all afternoon watching old Ray Charles shows....Here's what I have to say to cancer: "Hit the Road, Jack!"

2010-05-03T10:33:00.000-07:00

WOUND VAC IS OUT!!!!

2010-05-03T10:27:00.001-07:00

Here's the latest:
Wound-vac came out today. I am mobile, can drive again, party-party!! Can't stop me now!
Now, the next step is facing chemo again, which I'm not totally ready to do, but when is a human
every ready to face putting poisons into their system?

Fun Beach Day

2010-05-01T18:00:00.000-07:00

Had a wonderful weekend with my beautiful family.....they've all gone now..Wahhhhhh.

family weekend

2010-04-30T09:21:00.000-07:00

Yay...each day I feel stronger, and everything is healing. My daughter, Kelly called today, and she is driving up for the weekend, and then son Quincy,wife, Jen, + 2 grandkids; Drew and Katie are coming tomorrow....it will be a family reunion. Nothing else to report as of now, am just happy to be able to enjoy the weekend.
ALOHA!

Heigh-Ho Heigh-Ho

2010-04-28T06:52:00.000-07:00

Heigh-Ho, Heigh-Ho,
it's off to Stanford I go,
just keep on drivin, all day long
Heigh-Ho, Heigh-Ho

Today the doc will tell me when the wound-vac is coming out, and then I can start to get a little quality of life back, such as go out with friend at a restaurant without being self conscious of a tube attached to a machine is coming out of my belley.
That will feel like my sanity is starting to come back. Everything else is very boring right now. I look forward to phone calls where I don't have to talk about myself, and can just listen to someone elses story..so please get your story ready for me.
aloha,
Carmen

HOME!

2010-04-25T09:42:00.001-07:00

I'm finally home. Everything had to check out before I could be released, mainly the infection to make sure it is gone....so I'm off the antibiotics now.
It is gorgeous weather in Aptos CA. and I've been home for 4 days, and everyday, I've been able to go for a walk. Yesterday I went down to the ocean, and plan to keep it up if the weather stays this way. Different friends are coming in daily with special treats, flowers,DVD'S, encouraging scriptures and LOVE. I sure appreciate everyone right now, and I welcome any visits and food, but I am on a special diet, so it's best to call first before bringing me a big pizza! my home phone is 831 662-0428.
ALOHA

Possible Change of Plans

2010-04-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

Not doing well today. Have not been able to hold any food down for 24 hours, and haven't eliminated for 4 days. We're hoping it's not another obstruction, so am waiting for my doctor to call back from Stanford. I may have to go to ER until I get back on track.....all is in God's control

Update

2010-04-17T10:52:00.000-07:00

The very latest is that I am now going home on Wednesday!

Homeward Bound!

2010-04-14T13:31:00.000-07:00

Saw my oncologist at Stanford today and he said I can go home on Sat. so only 3 more days of the rest home! This will probably be my last posting for a while.....the infection is almost gone, and everything looks good. Praise to the Lord.

Wound Vac

2010-04-08T07:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the doctor put a Wound Vac with a sponge inside my belly. What this does is keep it clean by draining the fluid from the infection, which we now know is enterobacter, (not Staph). It is also less painful than stuffing the wound and pulling the stuff out every day. That was no fun! But, since I will have to stay on antibiotics for 10 days, I will need to be in a nursing facility. It looks like they will release me today sometime. I've been in the hospital since March 20 (18 days), and it's definitly time to move on. I will go to Vasona Creek Healthcare Center: 16412 Los Gatos blvd. Los Gatos, CA 95032.
408 356-2191.
That's all folks!

Gin Rummy

2010-04-07T13:01:00.000-07:00

My very good friend, Sally, came to visit me today. We had a Gin Rummy marathon. She brought me some brand new cards and it's keeping me sane. I had a lucky streak today and won 4 out of 5 games....Feels good to still be able to win a few.
Looks like I may be checking out of Stanford tomorrow and into a nursing home in Las Gatos for a few days. Will know early a.m what's happening....all depends on the infection.
Thank you everyone for the wonderful cards,chocolates, prayers,flowers, stuffed animals, and love you are sending my way. As soon as I get my new address, I will have it posted! Blessings to all.

Changed Rooms

2010-04-06T16:53:00.000-07:00

I am now in room F-341. Phone: 650-498-3851. They gave me a private room because I have some kind of staff infection that is highly contagious, and I cannot have visitors until they know exactly what it is. As soon as they find out, I will have the correct anti-biotics and will be able to be released. The doctor looked at the wound today and said it wasn't as bright red and infected as it has been, so things are progressing.
Quincy's family is going to Arizona for a week, and Kelly is involved in a fund-raiser for her pony club in Tehachapi, so it will be quiet for awhile.

A Very Busy Morning!

2010-04-05T09:58:00.000-07:00

I am thankful that I have a family. On Easter Sunday Quincy, Jen, Drew and Katie came to visit me. Drew and I played Farkel and he beat me 27,000 to 16,000! It amazes me how intelligent 6 year old children are these days. He can add all the numbers in his head and I had to add everything up the old fashioned way. He just laughs at me..... don't have to worry too much about him. The priest came in and gave me Holy Communion and Drew wanted to have a host too. I assumed it was because he wanted the body of Christ in his body....he said, no, he was just curious to see what it tastes like. LOL!
This morning was rather hectic to say the least. Woke up to the surgeon telling me that in 10 minutes he would be taking out the staples in my stomach and draining the fluid that's causing the infection. It wasn't as bad as I thought, because I've had multiple staph infections from being in hospitals, and in 2007, when my lung collapsed, there was a huge one on the top of my head. My son had to clean it out for me every night.
The next procedure was a picc line. That is when they put a permanent IV into your body, so all the antibiotics, pain meds, contrat for CT scans, chemo, or whatever you need can get into the body without poking each time with an IV.
The bummer is I can't leave the hospital yet, but I don't really feel like going anywhere , so it's all o.k. Stanford is a wonderful place to be and my room now looks like a botanical garden.

Too Relaxed?

2010-04-02T23:57:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
I'm having the same issue as last night. A lot of pain, without the constant IV drip in me. So I tried the Healing Harp CD again hoping it would do the same thing----put me out! The only problem was that I forgot that I had a cup of water in my hand while I was lying there drifting away to the music, and lo and behold, woke up completely soaked in my hospital gown. That waas a shocker for sure!!!

Percocet

2010-04-02T02:19:00.000-07:00

Fri. April 2 2010: 2:00 am
I have started percocet which the doctors are hoping will be strong enough to replace the morphine drip, as I may be leaving tomorrow and all IV's need to be out, so body can begin functioning on it's own. But tonight was wild, because I fell asleep and didn't have the percocet yet and obviously cannot push the button for the drip when I'm asleep. So when I woke up the pain was off the chart. I could barely stand up to go to the bathroom. So they started the percocet immediately! But then I began to choke uncontrollably, and just went on a whirlwind nightmare ride. So here I am on my blog, as i'm scared to go back to sleep after that experience. It was difficult emotionally and nothing seemed to calm me down, so I put on my Ipod with my CD Healing Harp Meditations playing. It is all about deep breathing, letting go, visualizing yourself in beautiful, calming places. Guess what? It worked! My breathing slowed down, the pain subsided, no more panic attacks. I got my peace back. Thank you God!

Tubes out!

2010-04-01T10:37:00.000-07:00

All 6 tubes are finally out of me. Yay God! So that means I got to actually sip some soup this moorning. The down side of 'no tubes' means more pain. The reason is because the epidural tube was numbing the lower part of my body, and I didn't feel as nauseated as I do now. Benjamin Franklin always believed the words, "No Pain No Gain". In this situation, that is definitly true.
Stanford hospital offers a wonderful service that has musicians to play for you, You just put yourself on this list, and they will send a musician to your room every day. Yesterday a wonderful harpist performed for me, and today a mellow guitarist. You can also request what kinds of music you like also. It is something I've been wanting to develop through my company, Music Minus Meds.

My friends are here

2010-03-31T06:20:00.001-07:00

Yesterday Kris and Charlou from Malibu drove up to spend some quality time with me. They always lift my spirits, rather than draining my energy. Cancer survivors learn over time who these people are and try to surround themselves with only uplifting friends when they are going through a bout. Wouldn't you rather have someone looking at you with an attitude of 'You can Beat this" with a happy face, then "I'm so sorry for you", with a sad face. Either way it's difficult though, because we all want to put on a mask, and not have people see us in our worst condition. Kris wanted to take my picture with all these tubes coming out of me, and I simply said 'No'. That's not how I want to be remembered. Today they are going to bring over a bunch of games to play and then they will leave this afternoon. Also, adorable Norman brought me some great DVD's of John Cruz concerts. Thanks Norman!!! That's da best.
Tomorrow Kelly will be back with my 2 grandkids, Sean and Dylan. I haven't had one dull moment.

Mon. 2.29

2010-03-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today is my son's bday, and boy am I glad I was the one who gave birth to this wonderful man..... my baby whose diapers I changed and who's now changing mine!
Yesterday's surgery was a success (they're telling me), even though I don't feel so great. They took out a tumor the size of a yam wrapped around my colon, and now all the bloating is gone. Today I will have a blood transfusion because of severe anemia, and I will get up and walk to the bathroom.
Tomorrow my good friend, Kris, will drive up to be with me for a couple of days. My angel daughter, Kelly left today so it's been a little bit of 'empty nest'. Kris worked at hospice for many years and has been a great helper to me through previous surgeries (I've battled the disease for 12 years now). She's going be bring some fun games...she always knows how to have fun. I'm still in room F=321-B, phone: 650 498-3832. Better to send me a card than call, as my throat hurts a lot from the feeding tube.....I haven't had anything to eat now for 11 days....I wonder what my first meal will be: Sushi, spaghetti, chocolate cream pie, or just plain chocolate!!!!
Thanks for everyone's prayers and a big ALOHA to all.
Stanford Address:
300 Pasteur dr.
Stanford Medical Center room
F321B
Stanford, CA 94305

Surgery Scheduled

2010-03-27T08:10:00.000-07:00

My surgery will be on Sunday, March 28 (the day my father passed away). I'll never forget the date, because it was the day before my son's 12th bday and it was the saddest bday dinner I have ever attended. This surgery will be good because they will remove the tumor and I will feel a lot more comfortable. I've been having a lot of lower back pain from it pressing against my pelvis for awhile now. I am still in room F-321-B if anyone wants to send a card. I'll be here at least a week.
Happy Easter.

No surgery till Tues.

2010-03-26T16:54:00.000-07:00

Well, they never showed up to do surgery today. That's Stanford...it's a teaching hospital, and you get put 'on hold' a lot. They are also researching other options for surgical procedures, rather than the stent....so I just have to hang out a little longer. Kelly will probably leave tomorrow, as she is missing her husband and son, Dylan. Am hoping my 2 grandkids, Drew and Katie can visit me tomorrow.
As my father always said: "The first hundred years are the hardest."

Surgery today!

2010-03-26T06:42:00.000-07:00

Well, after 8 gruelling days of no food, I'm scheduled to have the surgery today. It doesn't sound too horrible. They will put a stent inside my colon, and if it takes, I will be home free.
I am currently in room F-321-B. Don't know how long I'll be here...should know more info tomorrow.

A little good news.

2010-03-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

Met my new oncologist. She was very thorough and to the point. She told me I have a partial obstruction which means that there is no urgent reason to do surgery We are researching all my options i.e: stent,...Kelly has been with me 24/7 and is the 'angel of my life.'
Stanford was a good choice for right now. I am in room D-043. Don't know how long I'll be here....it's one day at a time.

Headed North today

2010-03-24T07:32:00.000-07:00

Wed: 3/24/10
Am checking out of Dominican Hospital today. They told me there's nothing more they can do for me, so my son Quincy, researched other possibilities. Stanford is the place to be, since they have all the current treatments, clinical trials, surgeries, etc.
I have an appointment with the same doctor I had when I was there in 2007 with a collapsed lung, Jackie Tai. The way I look at it is, they helped me then, so they can help me again.

re: Day 4 in Hospital

2010-03-23T09:22:00.000-07:00

Looks like I will be getting a stent inserted in my colon to open up my bowels so that I can eliminate again. It's been 5 days now with no food! My daughter Kelly is here and being a wonderful helper to me. She is bringing the harp to the hospital today so I can entertain myself and the nurses. I have a favorite male nurse, Matt, who makes me laugh in the middle of the night when he takes my blood pressure. He's really excited about the harp coming. They used to have harpists at Dominican hospital, and had to discontinue because one patient got very disturbed when he heard the angelic sounds, and thought he was dead!!! OMG.

Bad News

2010-03-21T16:27:00.000-07:00

March 21, 2010
Today is the first day of spring and is supposed to be happy but it is a sad day for me. Three days ago, I had severe pains in my abdomen. It felt like I was in labor; sharp, shooting, pains coming in intervals. Then I couldn't go to the bathroom, I was completely plugged up. I called my doctor, and he said to go straight to ER. I found out from the CT scan that I had a bowel obstrucsion... the dreaded words that I did not want to hear. The scan found a tumor in my colon which was blocking my bowels and many tumors in my stomach. I haven't had any food or water now for almost 4 days and am on a constant IV drip with morphine and other good stuff to keep my hydrated. Tomorrow (Mon.) I will find out if I'm going to have surgery or just let nature take it's course, which means I would starve to death. I'm now at the point in my cancer journey to completely surrender to God's will whatever that means. I am in a really good hospital: Domincan in Santa Cruz room 2109, if you would like to send a card.
Blessings
Carmen

The Median Isn't the Message

2009-11-23T13:42:00.000-08:00

http://www.phoenix5.org/articles/GouldMessage.html

Latest UTube

2009-06-17T20:56:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FQPrkuMJEg

BE-NINE

2009-03-02T16:28:00.001-08:00

Yea, My tonsils were benign (be-nine)...The fear of lymphoma is not in me right now!

Tonsils Out!

2009-02-24T15:54:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,
Well, I am now officially "tonsil-less". It actually wasn't a bad surgery, just a very sore throat, but no complications. I will find out in a few days, from the biopsy, if I am cancer free....so stay tuned in.

Health update

2009-02-12T21:21:00.000-08:00

Well, bloggers, it's been 2 years since my lung collapsed, and I had been doing really well, until a couple of months ago, my blood levels (CA 125) started shooting up. I decided to get a pet scan, and what showed up was some abnormalities in my right tonsil, so the doctor thought it would be a good idea to take both my tonsils out....a little old to do this surgery!
On Feb. 23 I will be under the knife again, and it's about a 2 week recovery period, but I get to eat lots of ice cream.
Say prayers.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T20:34:00.001-08:00

Life is good

I'm moving to Aptos

2008-11-28T19:22:00.000-08:00

Hi bloggers,
This weekend I'm moving to Aptos. I found a cute studio apt. one block from the beach and 10 minutes from my church job in Watsonville. Things are starting to "pick-up" for me.
Happy Thanksgiving!

Working in California again

2008-11-01T17:26:00.000-07:00

Wow...what a year of changes. So here I am, back in California, living in Santa Cruz and working at the United Presbyterian Church in Watsonville as a music director and harpist. I just finished recording my 5th CD, called "Healing Harp Meditations" which will be released by Christmas, so look for it on cdbaby.com
It is a cd all about healing your body narrated by me, harp music and nature sounds in the background. My brother, Dennis Dragon, recorded it here in Santa Cruz at his friend, Dave Gordons, studio.
I think it's my best cd so far, because it was inspired during my "near death" experience with stage 4 lung cancer in 2007. The completion of the CD brought me to new realizations and a zest for life that I have not experienced in a long time

My new boyfriend

2008-08-18T17:43:00.000-07:00

Who can guess who this guy is? Hint (J.C)

CALIFORNIA HERE I COME

2008-07-23T09:21:00.000-07:00

When the wintry winds starts blowing
And the snow is starting in the fall
Then my eyes went westward knowing
That's the place that i love best of all
California i've been blue
Since i've been away from you
I can't wait 'till i get blowing
Even now i'm starting in a call

California, Here I Come
Right back where I started from
where bowers of flowers
bloom in the spring
each morning at dawning
birdies sing at everything
a sunkissed miss said, "Don't be late!"
that's why I can hardly wait
open up that golden gate
California, Here I Come

Romantic Harp

2008-06-15T20:17:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to my CD, Romantic Harp.

scrolling="no" frameborder="0"
width="392" height="72">Romantic Harp

Concert in Tehachapi and Malibu coming soon

2008-05-06T23:43:00.001-07:00

HI everyone,
There will be two concerts coming up where I will be performing on harp:
The first is in Tehacapi : May 23, 2008
The second in Malibu: May 25: 4:00: 22000 Pac. Cst. Hwy Malibu 90265. call 310 4569333 for more info.

YOU ARE INVITED TO A FUNDRAISER FOR SEAN ARBAUT

HARP CONCERT performed by CARMEN DRAGON

Friday May, 23 2008 at 6:00 p.m.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

at the Whiting Center in Bear Valley Springs

29600 Bear Valley Road, Tehachapi

Ms. Dragon spent 15 years with the Glendale Symphony as first Harpist. Her extensive career continued in the orchestral arena, and she has often been honored as a featured soloist.
Known for her artistry on the Grand Harp, Carmen Dragon is a dynamic musician who has performed with a variety of orchestras throughout the United States.

Concert will raise money for Sean Arbaut of Tehachapi High School who has been invited to play baseball in Australia with the

USA Athletics International, www.usaai.org .

Sean is a starting varsity catcher and third baseman for the Tehachapi Warriors.

Suggested Donation is $15 per ticket.

Refreshments will be available.

All donations are tax deductible, make checks to USAAI.

RSVP to Kelly Arbaut (661)821-0540

LATEST CT SCAN

2007-10-04T16:05:00.000-07:00

Hi Bloggers,
So far, this is the best report:
Date of Exam: Sept. 28, 2007
Name of Exam: CT Chest-Abdomen-Pelvis with contrast
Comparison: a CT of the chest fom 05/04/07 and CT of the chest, abdomen and pelvis from 08/01/06

Findings: Since the CT scan of 05/04/07, a large right pleural effusion has almost completely resolved. There is some minimal fluid present at the lung base and there is a small amount of fluid in the major fissure, slight subsegmental atelectasis at the right bases. There is mild nodularity of the posterior pleural surface. No pulmonary nodules are identified. The left lung remains clear.
The images of the mediastinum show no adenopathy. there is normal enhancement of the aorta and pulmonary arteries. No axillary adenopathy is present. There is no free fluid. Bowel loops are unremarkable.

Impression: Since the CT scan of 05/04/07, there has been almost complete reexpansion of the right lung, minimal residual fluid seen at the right base. There is very mild nodularity along the pleural surface. Compared with the prior CT scan, the degree of nodularity appears less, although nodules are not as well visuallized on the prior study because of the adjacent fluid. THERE IS NO NEW MASS.
CT of the abdomen and pelvis shows post operative changes, NO EVIDENCE FOR METASTATIC DISEASE OR ADENOPATHY.

AMEN.
CARMEN

NO MORE CHEMO!

2007-09-14T07:24:00.000-07:00

Hi Bloggers,
I've been busy travelling back and forth to Kauai to keep my sanity, and now I'm in N. Calif. at my son's house again, expecting to do my last chemo. The doctor told me I didn't need any more!!! Yay God again.....so the holistic treatment now begins with Dr. Lam, an 84 Chinese holistic man who works with Homopathic Nosodes. The treatment system is called mesenchymal reactivation. He can identify toxins, allergens, virus, bacteria, fungus, and iritants while testing the electromagnetic field. He found that I do not have lung cancer, that it's the old Fallopian tube coming back from 9 years ago to haunt me again. I love Dr. Lam, and am looking forward to seeing him once a month on Oahu.
Aloha for now,
Carmen

Whales, Dolphins, Angel Fish, Halibut, Seahorse, Clownfish

2007-08-08T19:02:00.000-07:00

Hello Fishers of Men and Women!
Here are the results of the CDCF aka Carmen Dragon Cancer Fund. Because of YOU, research will continue through the Dragon genes, and money will be put into a special account strictly dedicated to cancer. There was a lot of cash, and I'm only sorry not to know your names. Please write to CDCF: P.O box 1302, Kilauea, HI 96754, and let us know who you are. This is a very exciting time for all of us, and hopefully we are close to a cure!: THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR GENEROSITY!
LOVE AND ALOHA,
CARMEN

WHALES:
N. Shore Christian Church, Kauai

DOLPHINS:
Steve and Linda Jensen
Louise Dexter
Robin Sanchez
Nona, Alan Goulding
Bill, Virgina Armstrong
Andrew, Margaret Pierson

ANGEL FISH:
KWPA (Kauai Wedding Prof.)
Craig and Brenda Rogers
Aaron and Lynn Montano
Doria Cook Nelson
Central Pacific Int. The Gauthiers
Mike and Tina Caveney
Chris and Dave Williams
Susan McLaughlin
Jim and Bambi Mallen
Franciscan Friars: Mount St. Francis, IN
Craig and Jane Angell
Elizabeth Peterson
Bonnie and Steve Walker
Sylvia Pippin
Dan Hillman
Sten, Janet Kelly

HALIBUT:
Larry and Lori Dill
Larry and Sandy Barton
Bill and Stephanie Britt
Alton and Janie Kanter
Richard and Noreen Kellough
Teresa Baker
William and Karen Gabelman
Joy Morrell
John and Catherine Burns
John and Rosalie Gordon
Gary Hoover
Charles Goodman
Polly Badt
Daryl and Toni Dragon
Tom Doyle
Kathy Doyle
Margaret Hunt
Dorothy Kelly

SEAHORSE
David and Carolyn Moore
Randi Hamman
J.W & W.S Osterman
Julie Wallace
John and Pat Howard
Donna Lei and Dane Kirkpatrick
Mary Ellen Sussex
Joan Knapp
Mike Tatsui
Pam McKay
Ruth Hillman
Doug Dragon
Kathy Henn
Rolla Wagner
Mary Gonzalez
Mark Reed
Rosemary, Jerry Redmond
James Biava

CLOWNFISH:
Claire Vierkoetter (first donation!)
Stephen and Darcel Koehne
Elaine Logan
Sylvia Partridge
Frank Harman
Mildrene Swan
Joseph Schlichter
Lilian Daily
Meredith Murphy
Carl and Sue Imparato
Lanez and thomas Lacour
Linda Warriner
Nancy and Michael Erickson
Dalores Dugan
Lisa Olberding
Tom Metoki

An Amazing Week in Kauai

2007-07-30T12:15:00.001-07:00

The fund raiser was fantastic. We sold out the Church of Pacific. Sueann Pinner performed on the first half, and I was featured on the second half. Brother Dennis played bongos with me, my wonderful Hawaiin friend, Donna did a hula, and a gospel singer named Jorge brought the house down! We had fun and made money too!
The following day the music camp began, and it was the biggest one so far. We had 30 kids signed up, but some of them were taking 2 or 3 classes. The most popular were: Vocal workshop, Tahitian drums,and keyboard. Dennis took a video, and it will be turned into a DVD to use for promo for the camp. We almost have our 501 C3, so this year the N. Shore School of Music can start grant-writing and fund raising. It's really exciting.
I extended my trip an extra 4 days, so I could have some down time with friends here, lunches, dinners, swimming etc. I decided not to go paddling, just because there's possible staff infections in the river, but besides that, all is good. Will be back in N. Calif. on Thurs, Aug. 3, and in the hospital Fri. for chemo #4. Aloha for now.Carmen
THANKS TO ALL WHO CONTRIBUTED TO MY CANCER FUND, BOUGHT CD'S, ETC.....!!!!!

Back to the Islands

2007-07-19T20:21:00.001-07:00

HOMEWARD BOUND!

2007-07-18T10:22:00.000-07:00

Aloha Kakou (Hi everyone!)
Today my daughter Kelly and grandson Dylan and I are flying to Kauai. The fund raiser concert will be on Sun. July 22 at Church of Pacific, 7:00 pm. My brother Dennis will be there to do sound, play bongo's and hopefully move my harp for me...I'm ready to perform...after 2 gruelling months of hospitals, chemo, et al....time for some fun and swimming in the Ocean, and then back to Calif. on July 29 to do #4 of 6 chemo treatments.
I want to thank everyone who has sent me a contribution to my cancer fund. When I return in August, I will get all my finances straightened out with a beneficiary handling the account in case I'm disabled, and that account will pay the medical bills, plus research down the road for those suffering from cancer. You will also receive a small gift from me, and be on my
EML (EternalMailinglist) so we can stay in touch forever. Mahalo, and A HUI HO.
Carmen

The GLass is Half Full

2007-07-13T20:40:00.000-07:00

Today, Fri the 13th was my third chemo treatment. The CT scan results are in,comparing them to the last PET CT of 6/21/07 and here is the status of my current health:

Clinical History:
right pleural malignant effusion. distant history of fallopian tube cancer. Possible metastatic disease to chest or possible primary lung cancer.

Findings:
CHEST: there has been substantial interval decrease in size of the right pleural effusion. Previously seen right pleural drain has been removed. The left lung appears clear. There is no mediastinal or hilar lymphadenopathy. There is a small amount of pleural fluid in the right lung base, and there are also several foci of pleural nodularity seen at the right lung base, smaller than on the prior study. There has been interval decrease in the amount of interlobular septal thickening seen previously at the right upper lobe, which could represent edema or potentially lymphangiectatic spread of tumour. The irregular mass-like lesion at the right upper lobe/right middle lobe has decreased in size and now appears more atelectatic-like, with residual volume loss.

ABDOMEN: In the abdomen, there is peritoneal metastitic disease at the dome of the liver, underneath the diaphragm, without significant change since the prior study. the kidneys, adrenal glands, spleen, and gallbladder are unremarkable. There has been what appears to be lymph node dissection at aortocval lymph node stations, as evidenced by surgical clips.

Meditation:
"Cancer does not occupy my mind.
It is seized with God's perfect peace.
Cancer has no place in my heart.
It is filled with God's awesome love.
Cancer cannot touch my soul
It is saved by God's amazing grace,
I am free-of-cancer.
by Lynn EIB. "When God and Cancer Meet". www.Amazon.com

Back in Tehachapi.

2007-07-01T17:10:00.000-07:00

Aloha all Bloggers,
Well, Kelly and I made the big drive from Mountain View to Tehacapi on Fri. Kelly drives her truck to Quincy's once every 2 weeks to bring me to her house....what a gal.
Today was the first day I was able to swim in 2 months, since the chest tube was inserted....now that it's out, it's "party,party". Speaking of "party", brother Dennis may come up this week to enjoy the 4th of July festivities....we have a 4th of July connection since childhood....just ask him about it.
HAPPY 4TH TO ALL.
Carmen

Benefit Concert for Carmen on Kauai!!!

2007-06-27T18:54:00.000-07:00

HI Bloggers,
Check out the cool fund-raiser I'm having for MYSELF and for Cancer Research. My dad died of cancer in 1984,my grandmother at 40 yrs. old, my grandfather at 50 yrs, and many uncles and cousins are still suffering. The chemo treatments have come along way since then! Any donations can be made to : Carmen Dragon Cancer Fund, and sent to 573 Leona Lane, Mountain View, CA. 94040. You can write this off as "cancer research", because I plan to create a fund to help people suffering from this horrible disease (1500 people per day die of cancer......more than the War on Terror!!

Alert
Subject:
Re: Fw: FUNDRAISER: Benefit Concert for Carmen Dragon -PRINCEVILLE- 7/22
To:
"Fred Dente"

AWESOME! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.
BLESSINGS,
CARMEN

--- Fred Dente wrote:

> C, The buzz is happening. f
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Light*Line Kaua'i"
>
> To:
> Sent: Saturday, June 23, 2007 3:55 AM
> Subject: FUNDRAISER: Benefit Concert for Carmen
> Dragon -PRINCEVILLE- 7/22
>
>
> >
> >> You're surfing the Light*Line
> ///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///
> >> \\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\
> FLASH 6.23.2007
> >
> >
> > Announcing a Benefit Concert for CARMEN DRAGON,
> who was
> > recently diagnosed with cancer in the lining of
> one lung and
> > bladder. She is currently at Stanford Medical
> Center in
> > California undergoing chemotherapy, and will be
> back home on
> > Kaua`i on July 18, to teach piano and harp at the
> NORTH SHORE
> > SCHOOL OF MUSIC (July 23-28). She is beloved in
> the
> > community as a sharing and caring person and
> artist, and she
> > needs our help and support. Her spirit is very
> strong.
> >
> > BENEFIT CONCERT: SUNDAY, JULY 22, 2007 7PM
> CHURCH OF THE
> > PACIFIC, North Shore of Kaua`i TICKETS:
> Suggested donation
> > of $15.00 Available at the door, or call NSSM at
> > 808-828-0460, or email at:
> celestdragon@hawaiiantel.net
> > A
> donation would be
> > appreciated if you can't attend the concert.
> PROCEEDS WILL
> > GO TO THE CARMEN DRAGON CANCER FUND. MAHALO NUI
> LOA
> >
> > The concert on July 22 will feature SUE ANN
> PINNER,
> > international recording star, composer and Emmy
> Award winner.
> > Her latest CD release, ILLUMINATION, is a
> sensational pop
> > album of spiritually uplifting songs, including
> her original
> > tribute to POPE JOHN PAUL II, as well as favorites
> "OVER THE
> > RAINBOW" and "AVE MARIA". SUE ANN sang solo for
> the Pope
> > during his historic Dodger Stadium PAPAL MASS in
> Los Angeles.
> > She is known as "OUR LADY'S SOPRANO". CARMEN
> DRAGON will
> > accompany Sue Ann on harp, if she is able.
> >
> > CARMEN DRAGON is an accomplished Pianist and a
> world renowned
> > Harpist. She has performed and recorded with many
> famous
> > performers (some are Ray Charles, Wayne Newton and
> Anthony
> > Newly), as well as at Disney Studios and on award
> winning TV
> > shows. Her professional credit list is long. Her
> umbrella
> > is "CELESTIAL MUSIC". She is presently the choir
> director at
> > the CHURCH OF THE PACIFIC. CARMEN also teaches
> music at KULA
> > SCHOOL, and she has private students. She is the
> founder and
> > manager, and a teacher at the NORTH SHORE SCHOOL
> OF MUSIC.
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > -*-
> > '
> >
> > Kokua and mention...
> >
> >> Light*Line Kaua'i
> \\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\
> >> ///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\
> JUNE 2007
> >
> >
> >
> > LightLine USA "we'll hook
> you up!"
> >
> ---------------------------------------------------
> > Un/Subscribe for FREE at
> http://HawaiiFLASH.com
> >
> ---------------------------------------------------
> > See FEATURED EVENT Calendar and
> CLASSIFIED
> > FLASH ADs @
> http://KauaiEvents.com
> >
> >
> > FLASH - a community service of
> LightLine
> >
> ---------------------------------------------------
> > Light, helpful, easy to read,
> e-mail ads!
> > With a SUBJECT line that lets you know
> the way to go!
> >
> --------------------------------------------------
> > TOPIC: Descriptive Ad Line -CITY-
> Date
> >
> --------------------------------------------------
> > FLASH & Subject Line Format are
> trademarks
> > of LightLine.Communications. All
> rights reserved.
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > Forward with all info intact. Use Bcc field for
> mailing lists. Mahalo.
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>

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View Carmen in the Hospital with Harp Video

2007-06-26T21:03:00.000-07:00

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=4947817363575569943

If you copy and paste this http into your browser, my harp playing in the hospital will come up.
aloha,
Carmen
thanks to Daryl.

Good News!!

2007-06-26T17:40:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
Tomorrow, June 27, I get my Chest tube taken out. That means there is no more pleura fluid surrounding my right lung. YAY GOD!!!!!! Chemo Theapy works, although it is disgusting. It also means I can start swimming and continue my therapy for bi-lateral knee replacements, which wasn't finished! I'm getting very stiff in my young-old age of 59. So on Fri. I leave for Tehachapi again for another spiritual week on Kelly's ranch, and she has access to a huge swimming pool that I will be in everyday for one hour. Yay God again!!!
It's nice to have a second chance.
love to all of you and your prayers!
Carmen

Cute Kelly! (my daughter)

2007-06-26T17:31:00.002-07:00

Good Friends

2007-06-26T17:25:00.000-07:00

Bliss with Grandkids

2007-06-25T09:43:00.000-07:00

2007-06-23T18:10:00.000-07:00

A PIECE OF CAKE?

2007-06-22T20:34:00.000-07:00

Hello all bloggers!
Today was my second chemo treatment which was 6 hours, first treatment was4 hours. The nurse told me after today, it's a piece of cake". I said what kind of cake, since my tastebuds are shot, does it really matter anyway? it all tastes contaminated.
Apparently the chemo they added on for an extra 90 minutes is called "Avastin". What it does: starves the cancer by cutting off its blood supply...(.remember cancer has a mind of it's own). The meds work on the surface of cells that form blood vessels in your body. The therapy kills or stops the growth of blood vessel cells at the cancer site. Sounds good to me.
They say the side effects will be horendous, and will begin this weekend. I have another full time caretaker, real nice older Filipino lady named Filio Mena. I asked her what her name meant and she didn't know. I think I know, from the Latin: Filio means brotherly love, and I think Mena is some kind of fish....anyone out there know? she made jello for me tonight and did all the dishes.
I will stay with my son's family which is near Stanford, and will be constantly monitored until Fri. when I go back to Kelly's in Tehachapi. If any of my girl friends want to visit me in Tehacapi the week of July 4th, I would love you to come out there. there's going to be a fun small town 4th of July celebration, horses to ride, swimming, a beautiful GOLF course (Linda), and many other fun things. there's also a very nice Holiday Inn for married couples who would like to stay over, or even single friends....Come on out!
love,
Carmen

Aloha Kauai Bloggers!

2007-06-17T09:24:00.000-07:00

I will be coming back to Kauai on July 18. I have a music camp for kids K to 12th grade that I run at Church of Pacific from July 23 to July 28. Check out my website:
http://nssm.htohananet.com
It's a very exciting time for the Kauai kids, since they are starving for culture, especially music, as we all know!
I am also putting on a fund-raiser for my own cancer-fund, as I have been out of work from Jan. 1 (due to double-knee surgey) until now. The fund raiser will be on Sun, July 22 at 7:00pm Church of Pacific. I have invited a world-class singer, Sueann Pinner to perform. check her cd-s out at cdbaby.com
I'm asking anyone if they have a place for her to stay fron July 18 to july 29. It could be a room in a house, a condo, a house where someone has left island, and needs a caretaker, etc....anything would help.
Mahalo.
Carmen

Carmen in Tehachapi

2007-06-13T11:43:00.000-07:00

Hi bloggers,
Well, I've been here on a gorgeous 20 acre ranch for 4 days, and it's been very peaceful, healing, and spiritual. I am surrounded by animals....my daughter is a horse trainer and I get to watch her teach her students outside my window in her jumping arena which is right in her backyard! My grandson, Dylan, who is 13 has been juicing for me every day: carrotts, pineapples, and all kinds of combinations of vegetable juices. It gives me energy, and it's one of the few things that compliments the chemo. Whenever I eat any junk at all, such as a cookie, I can taste ALL the chemicals in it, and it's not attractive food anymore.
Today one of my best friends, Kris Larronde is coming up. We are staying in a hotel tonight and having some down time. Kelly planned a very large BBQ for me over the weekend, and my Cousin Randy, wife Doris, and his Mom Virgina are all coming over to party.
Life is good. If anyone is ever out by Bakersfield, you should take a little trip over the mountains into Bear Valley and visit this peaceful little town of Tehacapi.
Aloha to all!

Mushrooms!

2007-06-12T09:17:00.000-07:00

HI Trisha,
Please tell Caela to send me the mushrooms. I left my address on the blog for her.
love,
Carmen

Update: June 7, 2007

2007-06-07T11:01:00.000-07:00

Hi blogger fans! I will soon be spending a glorious week in the Bear Valley area of Southern Calif....a quaint chateau on a farm of 20 acres in the little town of Tehachapi. It just happens to belong to my daughter, Kelly Arbaut who will turn 40 this year! Yikes.
I am doing fine today (one day at a time), and will come back to my son and family in Mountain View on June 20 to continue another round of chemo (slam!) Oh well.....at least it's killing the bad stuff.
aloha, love,
Carmen

re: Maitake mushrooms

2007-06-05T19:46:00.000-07:00

Hi Caela,
Those mushrooms sounds delicious. If you would like to send them, my address is 573 Leona Lane, Mountain View, CA. 94040. I like shitake mushrooms...are those related to Maitake? (Please enclose bill,, I know they're expensive!)
By the way, I enjoy keeping up with all your art shows.....you are quite the talent, but of course, you always were!
Much love and aloha,
Carmen

2007-05-26T12:21:00.000-07:00

Here is the latest information on Carmen's health:
I am in N. Calif. staying close to my son's family
in Mountain View. I have a very good oncologist
at Stanford Medical in Palo Alto. I have been
diagnosed with cancer cells in the lining of my lung
and it is also in the lining of the bladder. The doctors
still don't know the primary source, and do lots of
test in order to find out.
I appreciate everyone's prayers and aloha spirit.
I love you and hope to see you soon.
Blessings
Carmen Dragon

Carmens First Blog

2005-09-11T12:47:00.000-07:00

ALOHA,
THS IS MY FIRST POST! YOU ARE WELCOME TO ADD A COMMENT.
CARMEN