Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Tribute: Tony's Final Farewell

Thank you for joining us to celebrate
the life of, the one and only,
TONY ENG
(1946-2008)
Sunday May 11 at 3PM
at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church
(Douglas & Broughton)

Thank you to all who patiently waited to give your
love, hugs and warm stories at our tea reception.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that you,
instead, consider a donation in Tony's memory through the
charity, MAGICANA to the Tony Eng Tribute Fund.




Monday, May 5, 2008

The Final Curtain


Friends,

Please forgive our long delay, but after a long and difficult battle, complications have made the unthinkable, a reality. I'm completely heartbroken to share that our dear Tony was taken from us on Sunday afternoon at 4.26 PM.

We are completely devastated by the loss.

We still cannot believe that after the incredible battle he fought, our invincible superman was force to concede on May 4, 2008 - just 25 days short of his 62nd birthday. We take solace in knowing, that he at least passed peacefully, with his beloved partner, Ann, by his side.

It has been the most horrible two-weeks watching Dad fight so damn hard. And I know, he tried. He tried harder than any guy could, but they just kept changing the rules on him. As he conquered one thing, another problem surfaced...then another...and then another. He was fighting blood infections, bowel infections, and all their complications -- not to mention that all the while, his leukemia and Merkel Cell cancers were spreading viciously through his poor, battered body.

You know there is no other guy who would fight harder for his wife and his family - but even heros have their limits. Dad always went above and beyond and, I know, he gave this one more than his usual 110% -- but still, it wasn't enough.

How much can a man be asked to give? Well, typical Tony gave it all for us...and for that we will never forget his amazing strength, courage, generosity and love.

You been with us all along the way - the ups the downs, the highs the lows - and we can't thank you enough for your love and support. It is thanks to your words of encouragement that we have been able to cope with these very difficult times. We are especially grateful to all of your for thinking not only of Dad but of us. From emails, texts and calls, you have shared so much sage advice and words of wisdom. You have all been so concerned for our well-being -- we feel so fortunate to have such a supportive group of family and friends looking out for us.

Many of you have expressed your condolences and I just want to say how much it means to our entire family; your generous words and abundant outpouring of love for Tony has brought great comfort to us all. We will post information on his memorial very soon, here on the blog. Please help us share this information for those who do not blog or email.

In the meanwhile, the family has agreed to keep the legacy and spirit of Tony alive by asking, in lieu of flowers, you consider a donation in Tony's memory to either Magicana (www.magicana.com); or, to a yet-to-be-determined fund to benefit a racquetball-related
program or tournament in Tony's name. Because Tony's deep passion for both magic and racquetball we feel these are fitting tributes to honour his memory.

As most of you know, I'm the Executive Director of Magicana which is a charity dedicated to sharing magic as a performance art. Our site (www.magicana.com) allows you to make online donations and receive a charitable tax receipt. Funds collected in Dad's memory will be directed to a youth program to teach underprivileged children the art of magic. Though we currently do not have the details for the racquetball fund, we will post the details on this blog, and eventually, onto his website.

On behalf of my family, I sign-off with a heavy heart and with our deepest thanks,

Julie
for Ann, Sandra and Suley

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Don't forget to laugh...

The last two days have been like a bad roller coaster ride.

Dad has shown amazing strength and you all know how much of an athlete he is, but even this superman has been put through the ringer. His blood is still infected which means it's giving him difficulties elsewhere such as increased tiredness. It also means that his blood is not working properly so several measures must be put in place - like giving him blood components like platelets and albumin - to give Dad some comfort and to give his body a chance to absorb the antibiotic and hopefully fight off infection. He is fighting more and more small battles as his immune system is so stressed and we are seeing some issues such as fluid retention.

He did have some fluid from his lungs drained over the past two days and that has seemed to improve his breathing. He was zonked out big time on Wednesday as a result.

As dire and dark as the picture is drawn we were graced with a window of light last evening: Since Dad was so tired from the minor procedure for the draining, he did rest well for most of the day. He woke up while Julie had the Dad-Watch and while Sandra and Grandma took Suley, Aunty Joan, and Mum out for some food. He was rested, and as a result was feeling quite good. We got him through some of his liquid diet and then he got quite chatty. The infection, and perhaps some of the morphine is now affecting his cognizance and his mind is working on another level now. He’s not always quite with it, but believe me, he sure knows all his dirty jokes still! We read a few more emails and he laughed and rolled his eyes at all the fun comments, goofy jokes and happy memories.

Sandra, Suley, and mum got back while he was in the middle of this happy period. He was singing a little of Queen’s “We Will Rock You” and “We Are The Champions” and was also reciting a bit of one of the magical effects called “Stan, Kate & Edith”. He had us in stitches.

It was something we’ll all cherish. It was good to catch that magical moment of Tony’s infectious sparkle.

The evening ended, however, with Dad experiencing a really bad tummy ache. He’s also contracted a bowel infection, which causes moments of terrible discomfort now and then. Mum comforted him until he settled down – all the while he kept insisting that “those damn kids” were setting off stink bombs again. You can’t help but giggle.

So yes, it’s still awful to see Dad struggle with all these problems and yet he reminded us all that the best medicine, indeed, is to laugh a little. When thinking of Tony, don’t forget to take a healthy dose yourselves!

Monday, April 28, 2008

Week Two begins...

Sunday was a sleepy day despite the new unit of blood. He had a fairly restless night and his blood pressure was a little bit high. He has started to express more pain now and his dosage of morphine has increased. That said, the hazy moments have also increased.

Dad sleeps quite a bit through out the day and then when he wakes, he is sometimes still half sleeping and half sleep talking. For the most part, he's doing shows in his dreams! He was snapping away and laughing at a joke during my watch this afternoon. He must have been singing at one point, too. Then, I caught him taking one of his IV cords and was getting it in position to do the Cut & Restore Rope today! I also caught hell when I put his oxygen prongs on...he said, "I don't know why you put me through all this... I can't hear a damn thing! Hello? Hello?" The over-the-ears sensation of the of the cord, clearly made him think of the headphones we got him for his Skype phone!

Today, Monday, we waited for him to get his CT done but it didn't happen until 4PM so we won't know much more until later in the week. Dad was quite tired today and spent little time chatting. Sandra and Ann read a lot of your emails today and that brought a cheer. We've printed some of the pictures and notes you've sent to show him. Hopefully we'll know more tomorrow!

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Weekend at the Hospital with the Engs

It was no picnic, I can assure you.

This weekend has ended not too bad. But I tell you Friday really freaked us all out. Dad got dangerously close to a place we don't talk about. To make matters even more frustrating, poor Sandra was en route stuck in Phoenix. Try delivering distressing news to a hysterical sister in an airport waiting lounge. It was not good.

So despite our very scary morning, Dad pulled through and we saw Sandra arrive safe and sound (despite cancellation and delays, thank you nice lady at the ticket desk!). Friday ended up exhausting everyone badly! But at least we left him settled and sleeping deeply.

Saturday was a very good day. Rough start to the morning but after that he seemed to be taking to the antibiotics. His mother (who is terribly worried) came by to visit. How fortunate that she waited for Saturday as Dad looked and was much better than the day before. Dad even let me dress him to take him outside for a sit in the sun! A very good day.

Sunday was not bad...lots of rest but he seemed less settled than he was on Saturday. We are anxious to see what his test results are...!

You have all been so very very kind to write wonderful words of encouragement and support to all of us. We are very fortunate to be surrounded by so many good and loving people. We read your emails to dad and remind him of how many people love and care for him...and you know how he hates (and never) disappoints!

Thanks!

Julie, Sandra and Ann

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Tony in hospital

Big scare when Ann brought Tony to hospital on Sunday April 20th. Sandra and Julie were flying back to New York and Toronto but with heavy hearts. Tony was admitted in the morning at the recommendation of the oncologist on call at the Cancer Clinic. Tests showed his blood sugar seriously spiked (normal is around 4 to 8 and Tony was at 23.7).

There were also serious concerns with his blood in general. Turns out there is a bad infection in the blood and therefore his body is suffering as a consequence. After a million tests they finally narrowed his infection to a specific kind and he is now on a special antibiotic for the past five days.

Tony had a very rough Wednesday April 23rd - so bad that Tony asked for us (the girls) to come home. We freaked out and flew home straight away. Julie arrived on Thursday from Toronto and Sandra arrived on Friday from NYC.

Since Wednesday April 23 things have been like a bad roller coaster ride: he's had really great and fabulous moments like laughing and making jokes with the health care staff to scaring us to death with how close he is pushing the line.

I've come to understand a few things about Dad's illness and I'll sum it up here: It's complicated. He's battling two cancers (Merkel Cell Carcinoma -MCC- and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia-CLL) , each attacking different parts of his immune system. Every time the doctors treat one thing, it makes him vulnerable to the other cancer or infection. The scars of his fight are extremely disturbing and he is quite tired and I daresay, exhausted.

Now, that being all said, something in my gut tells me he's still got some fight left in him. The war going on in his body is really straining and taxing his mind. I think that is the hardest part for me to watch. He really wants to give in to the battle sometimes. However, his body seems to be responding positively to various treatments, bit by bit. Even though they are small gains, I reckon that's a lot in this game. And doubly so for dad. And though he may seem like he's really down for the count on this one, that hand of his keeps rising up. It's unbelievable how he just keeps going -- but that is the essence of our Tony, isn't it?

Sunday, April 20, 2008

April's brings change

Hi Readers,
Julie here. I've commandeered Dad's blog to fill you in on the latest.

It's a big complicated if you have not heard so I'll try and make up lost time:

First, Sandra, Suley and I flew in from the East to surprise Mum for her 60th Birthday. After much preparation we arrived on April 12. This was the first time we were visually aware of the obvious decline in Dad's health.

We thought we got the problem licked by April 15th but then we saw a big down slide by the weekend. Sandra and I flew out early Sunday morning April 20th and Mum brought Dad to emergency.

Sunday, March 30, 2008

ON THE MEND (3)

March 1/08 - We had mom over for supper. I’m feeling good, not tired.

March 2/08 – Ann and I cleaned up the house. We had Auntie Sophie & Uncle Bob up for lunch. We had a great visit and caught up with each others lives. Later, I took Ann to work and I went to Willie & Jane’s place and also to Victor & Jane’s place. I brought them maps for the Camosun College Restaurant. Today, I’m feeling good; not tired.

March 3/08 – It’s a relaxing day.

March 4/08 – I did my weekly blood test, first thing in the morning. Later, I went fishing at Prospect Lake with Jim Lewis. Beautiful day, but cold. Relaxing day.

March 5/08 – I got up early to take Ann to the dentist. I went grocery shopping while she was there. Met up with Rod Stevens and chatted over coffee. Later, more shopping, this time for Mindy Cat. I went home to rest as I had a close up magic show to do at the Victoria Conference Centre, in the evening. The show was well received and I didn’t feel tired.

March 6/08 – Relaxing day. I did a “walking workout” with Ann in the morning (to a DVD). In the evening, I went to the Gardners (in Sidney) to ‘jam’ with our guitars. Not tired.

March 7/08 – I woke up being a little tender. I did a walking workout with Ann in the morning (to a DVD). In the afternoon, I helped guide my good friend Ray Roch (driving a bus for the Shriners) up to Saanichton. Relaxing day… and then we had Rick Cordick up for supper (LOL). A little tired this evening.

March 8/08 – Wow, I was really sore (tender) all over this morning. It was probably due to the DVD walking workout… I should never have let myself get outta’ shape this far (groan). Yes, I was tired. Ann and I went shopping in the afternoon.

March 9/08 – Basically a relaxing day. I got up early to enjoy the sunrise. We turned our clocks an hour, ahead. I went grocery shopping for our RVing trip. I went over to Case Emke’s to tighten down our campout at Weir’s Beach. I also showed him some of my ‘cooking tools’… my Jumbo Cooker and pot. Later in the afternoon, I picked up Ann from work and in the evening we went to Doug & Holly Poruchny’s for a gourmet supper. Wow, what a meal and no problem with my appetite!

March 10/08 – We got up and did our morning exercise to the “Walking DVD”. I’m starting to get use to the routine. I had to go downtown to do some banking and setting up the stage and magic props at Fountain Restaurant. In the evening, Ann and I entertained for a Seniors Tour. Later, we came home, unpacked our magic equipment and stage. I went to fuel up the truck for tomorrow’s campout.


March 11/08 – I went to get my weekly blood tests done. Later I had an appointment with my radiation specialist Dr. S. Larrson. He seemed quite pleased with my Merkel Cell Skin Cancer being under control. He was concerned with enlarged Lymph Nodes, near my neck and under my left arm. We picked up mom and we had lunch at our place. Later, we packed up our rig and headed to Weir’s Beach. Our RV site #53 is right on the ocean front. The view is magnificent. It was terrific to see such a good turnout with
some many members present.

March 12/08 – I got up early. Later in the morning, I had an appointment with my Hematologist Dr. Yee. He also checked out my Lymph Nodes. He will consult with Dr. Larrson re: this matter. It seems they will send me to Dr. Kenny, the Dermatologist to get a biopsy done. I did some chores at home, then drove up to Nanaimo to perform a close up magic show at the Port Theatre. After the show, I drove back home, then to Weir’s Beach to catch up with the Victoria Wanderers.

March 13/08 – I had a very relaxing morning. I also had a Chemo session scheduled for 1:00pm. Unfortunately, due to new nurses, I didn’t get the treatment until 2:35pm. I got back to the RV site at 6:00pm. We had some supper, then went to the clubhouse. We had a very relaxing evening. I went to bed by 11:30pm. Amazingly, I didn’t feel tired at all.

March 14/08 – I got up early and started packing down our rig. We had a successful campout. We left the campground at 10:45am and we got home around 11:20am. Ann made lunch. Right after lunch, we drove mom home and went shopping. Upon getting home, I rushed down to see Dave Cutler to get some souvenirs shirts and I delivered to Don Strugnell to bring to Vancouver. Unbeknown to me, he’s not going until next week (groan). We had a light supper and I took Ann to work. I was on laundry duty and cleaning up the house. I wasn’t tired or sleepy today.

March 15/08 – I got up early this morning. I’m taking it easy, today. I have a magic show to perform tonight for the Bantam AAA Hockey Association (Bear Mountain Arena). The show was well received. Later, we went for a snack at Fountain Restaurant, grocery shopped, and Starbucks. Not tired.

March 16/08 – I had a very lazy day today. Not really tired, just lazy. Did the usual Sunday chores…

March 17/08 – Happy St. Paddy’s Day! I made some breaky for Ann and I. Cleaned up. I received a call from Dr. Hayashi (surgeon) to set up an appointment to remove a couple of lymph nodes. I got another call from my GP Dr. Houston, to get a pre-op done. Later went to the bank. Went to Chinatown to shop. I bought some groceries from Save-On. I went home to prepare supper. I took Ann to her quilt meeting. I relaxed at home. Not tired.

March 18/08 – I was up early. Had to get blood tests done. Later, I got changed and went to speak at the Cordova Bay 55+ gathering. Harumph, I’m thinking… these are old people, then I realized I’m older than some of them (LOL). At 3:00pm, I had a pre-op check up with Dr. Houston, my GP. Dr. Houston gave me some high blood pressure pills. In the evening, I took Ann to work and I stayed home to do the dishes and laundry. I practiced on my guitar. It was a relaxing evening.

March 19/08 – I got up early but I had a relaxing morning. I picked up mom at 3:00pm. We went to dinner at the Camosun College Restaurant with Willie & Jane, Victor & Jane. It was a delightful meal.

March 20/08 – I had a relaxing day. We went to Victor & Jane’s for an Easter Dinner. Awesome supper. Later in the evening, Ann and I performed a magic show for the Utah Grizzlies, at the Coast Harbourside Hotel (as arranged by Sid Kinsasewich).

March 21/08 – I was a little tired this morning (late night). I had a lazy day. In the afternoon, I cut and trimmed the lawn. We just relaxed in the evening. My blood pressure has gone down considerable and I’m feeling good.

March 22/08 – Again, I had a lazy morning. We cleaned up the house. Sid called and he had some fresh prawns for me… hmm, awesome! We had mom up to our place for supper… black bean sauce with prawns. Feeling good, not tired.

March 23/08 – Ann and I cleaned and vacuumed the house. Basically, it was a relaxing day. I tested my blood pressure 118/70. My two enlarged lymph nodes have gone from rock hard to mushy and soft, and have reduced in size.

March 24/08 – We finished cleaning the house. I took Ann to work. I went up to the airport to pick up Susan Robinson. Sue will be staying with us for a week. Not tired.

March 25/08 – I took Ann to work. Later did a blood test at VGH. I took Susan Robinson to get her medical work done. Bar-B-Qued some steaks for supper. Not tired.

March 26/08 – Made some breaky. I took Ann and Susan to Frabricland. We went downtown to do some banking. In the evening, Ann and I went to have supper with Rick Corcick and Steve Meridith at the Millstream Pub. Later, we went grocery shopping at Super Store. Relaxing day. Not tired.

March 27/08 – Took Ann to work. I took Susan to the Doctor and cleaned the house. I did some grocery shopping. It was a relaxing day, as I got ready for the “Jam” with the Gardners in the evening. We had salmon for supper. Good appetite. Not tired.

March 28/08 – Cleaned and vacuumed the house. Got supper prepared as the Ouseys were coming over for supper. I bar-b-qued steaks for dinner. Great evening. Not tired.

March 29/08 – Took Ann and Susan to the Quilt show at the Victoria Conference Centre. I went down to the Y to watch the boys play racquetball. I relaxed as I had a magic show to do in the evening. Not tired, but a little sore on my left shoulder.

March 30/08 – Got up early to make some breaky for Susan and I. Susan invited Ann and I and my mom to Crystal Jade Restaurant for lunch. Susan and I had a light supper as Ann had to work. We went to bed early as Susan will be leaving early tomorrow morning.

March 31/08 – Susan and I got up at 4:00am. I dropped Sue at the airport by 5:00am. When I got home … I went right back to bed, as Ann will be working the morning shift at Helmcken Food Market. I rested and relaxed for most of the day as I had a magic show to perform at the Fountain Restaurant for the Seniors Tour, that night.

So ends another chapter of being on the mend ...

Friday, February 29, 2008

ON THE MEND (2) …

February 2/08 – I went out to perform a close up magic show for a Doctor’s ‘Christmas Party’, at Ric’s Cafe. I felt in great condition… no more cramps. Yay!

February 3/08 – Ann and I went to a fellow fisherman’s home (Dave Lock and Josie Jones) for a delicious lunch. Wow, what a spread… there was nothing wrong with my appetite. Later in the evening, I attended a Magic Lecture by David Regal.

February 5/08 – I attended our annual VMC Auction Night at the Langford Fire Hall. It was a long night, but I felt pretty good. Not tired.

February 6/08 – We had some fly fishing friends over for supper. Barry Stokes & Pauline Loos and Derek & Bev Peach. Derek & Bev will be leaving for a trip to Africa, next week. It was a very relaxing evening… not tired.

February 7/08 – Chinese New Years – Ann went to the Crystal Jade Restaurant for supper with the Eng family (actually Victor and Willie were in Mexico), while I went up to Sidney to visit with friends Ron & Lynn Gardner and their son Kevin. We ‘jammed’ with our guitars, etc. I had a riot. Lots of fun.

February 12/08 – Susan Robinson came (from Arizona) to have lunch with us. Susan’s on a quick trip home to get checked out health-wise. In the evening, I went to celebrate Steve Hendry’s 60th birthday at the Ribs & Bones Restaurant. Again, nothing wrong with my appetite.

February 13/08 – Willie & Jane invited us to a fundraiser with MLA Ida Chong at Golden City. Full house. Delicious supper. I ate good… not tired.

February 14/08 – Rick Smith (from Hawaii) invited me to a Sushi lunch. Smitty came to participate in our annual Y Racquetball tournament. In the evening, I went to Bill Reece’s home to help ‘bag’ grab-bags and sort prizes for the racquetball tournament. Later, we went down to the Y to unload pop, juices, etc.

February 15/08 – Ann and I enjoyed a very nice luncheon at the Swiss Chalet Restaurant with our RVing group, the Victoria Wanderers. Later, I went down to the Y to help at the registration desk and take photos. Ah, it was great to go down to the courts, even though I didn’t play…

February 16/08 – I went down to the Y early in the morning, helped at the registration desk, took more photos and sold raffle tickets. I went home in the afternoon for a quick nap, then came back to help in the evening. These were long days but I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I wasn’t tired. Great to see and watch the gang play. I sure miss the Y.

February 17/08 – Wind up at the Y racquetball tournament. After helping with cleaning up, I rushed over to the Strath to take photos and sell more tickets. I had a delicious ‘bangers and mash’ lunch. What a great weekend.

February 18/08 – At this time, I’m still having blood tests done three times a week. I thought it would be interesting to check the results… After a long weekend… surprisingly, my white blood count was OK. I felt good, so in the afternoon, Ann and I were very ambitious. We cleaned up the yard and dump all the debris into Rick Cordick’s utility trailer. Later, we pulled out the awning from our 5th Wheel and washed it. It now looks like a ‘million bucks’. We’re getting ready to head out to Weir’s Beach, in a few weeks, with our RVing group.

February 19/08 – Ann and I went to Glanford Middle School to perform at magic show, in the morning. In the evening, I went to the Chief and Petty Officers Mess for a Flying Tying session.
Not tired.

February 20/08 – Tom Walton drove me to the Cancer Clinic, as my medical team warned me about being tired and sleepy after my Chemo Treatment. I had an appointment with Dr. Yee, in the morning. He was very pleased with the way my white blood count was holding up. He then changed my tri-weekly blood check up to only once a week. Yay! In the afternoon, I had my Chemo Treatment, which was called my cycle #2. This was the ‘double whammy’ treatment. Good job Ann came to pick me up… I was really tired and sleepy (Benodril). Once getting home, I went to sleep (around 5:00pm). My neighbour Fred, phoned me around 7ish and told me to check out the eclipse of the moon. It was a clear night. The eclipse was awesome! I went to wake up Ann but she was no where to be found. I finally found her, in her sewing room, downstairs. I was so disoriented… I thought it was morning and it was only 7:00pm at night. Jeez…

February 21/08 – Wow, I slept right through the night. This “double whammy” treatment set me back a whole bunch. I met up with Dave Cutler for coffee at Starbucks, at Tillicum Mall, in the morning. In the afternoon, Ann and I went to a celebration of life for Ross Simms, long time friend in our Magic Club. I was a little tired in the evening.

February 23/08 – It’s been three days since the Chemo treatment. I’m finally starting to feel somewhat ‘normal’ as the chemo drugs are slowly working its way through my body. Ann and I cleaned up the house as we’re expecting guests on the weekend…. Omar Fattah, Suley’s brother will be visiting and staying with us on Sunday night. I was 'bushed' by the end of the night.

February 24/08 - We had a wonderful visit with Omar. He is currently living in San Miguel, Mexico. I drove Omar around Victoria, in the evening, to enjoy the fine sights of our Capital City. It’s been some 9-10 years since he’s been here.

February 25/08 – I got up early to cook some breaky for Omar, before he left. He and his friend Azah (she stayed with her friend Erika) had to catch the 9:00am ferry sailing to Tsawwassen, in order to catch the 1:00pm flight from Vancouver to Mexico. I felt good… not tired.

February 26/08 – My friend Dave Lock invited me for a “float down the Cowichan River”. I got up early to get my weekly blood test done at Victoria General Hospital. Upon completion of the test, I went over to Dave’s home to load up our ‘fishing’ equipment. We drove up to Cowichan Lake, where we proceeded to go to “the Weir”, to unload and launch our pontoon boats. After a quick lesson on the ‘rapids’ at the Weir, we proceeded down the river…” Wow, what an experience! As we traveled down the Cowichan River, we had to dodge big boulders, fallen trees and fight the swift current. What a rush! Upon getting home, I was a bit tired from the long day and had a quick nap. It was a good day!

February 27/08 – Because my pontoon boat was still on the back of my truck in the morning, I decided to go fly fishing. Ann had to work a morning shift at Helmcken Market, so I headed to Prospect Lake. Of course, I did my dishes and laundry duties, before going. I caught three little rainbows. They were very small. No keepers. Ann and I had a busy afternoon: banking; post office; money orders; buying medicine; and getting car insurance. I’m on my third day of Neupogen. This is the drug that keeps my white blood count up. After each Chemo Treatment, I do five days of Prednisone; then immediately five days of Neupogen. Health-wise, everything is OK.

February 28/08 – It was a lazy day today. Ann and I had a relaxing day. I just did some regular chores and practiced on my guitar. Had a shot of Neupogen. I’m feeling good.

February 29/08 – I relaxed in the morning, knowing that I have a magic show to perform in the evening. Had my last shot of Neupogen (until next time). I performed at a 60th Birthday party for Ian Wade. Ian’s wife Debi and Ann are “fellow quilters” and good friends. The magic show went off very well… no more cramps anymore. Later, after the magic show, we jammed with our guitars and sang, in their basement. Great evening. Lots of fun. Not tired. I can feel it … I’m slowly on the mend!

Thursday, January 31, 2008

ON THE MEND ...

January 10/08 - I feel I’m slowly on the mend. Ann and I have been going “out” a little more often. Yesterday, we attended Murray Hatfield’s Magic ‘n Miracles at the Royal Theatre (terrific show). This afternoon, we went for “tea” at the home of Jim & Galina Lewis (fly fishing buddy). I’m feeling good…

January 11/08 – Ann and I went to Glenwarren Lodge (Seniors Home) to perform a 30 minute magic show for the residents. No cramps and not tired…

January 14/08 – The doctor has started to “cut back” on my medicine. e.g. My Prednisone was originally at 50mg and now it’s been cut down to 5mg. Also had a chemo treatment today.

January 18/08 – We went for “tea” at the home of Case & Doris Emke. Case (retired baker) made his famous Cinnamon Buns. They were deliciously awesome. I’m the President of our Good Sam Victoria Wanderers and the Emkes are members of the same Chapter. I did have a rest before heading out for this visit …. Didn’t feel tired all…

January 19/08 – I was feeling very good and Ann & I built a “feature wall” made of knotty cedar in our laundry room, downstairs in our basement. We cut, nailed and oiled the wall (7’ x7’). Looks great!

January 21/08 – Ann and I drove to Whistler, BC. I performed a close up show for a group of Financial Planners (Western theme – Rawhide & Rhinestones). We stayed at the Fairmont Whistler Chateau. I was feeling good but my nurse phoned long distance and said my white blood count was very low and not to rush back for my Chemo Treatment, as it had been postponed. I was a little disappointed as I wanted to keep a steady continuation on my treatments…

January 25/08 – I finally found my dream ¾ size guitar through “Used Victoria”… it’s called a “Baby Taylor” guitar. It’s perfect for traveling. I was very happy… made me feel really good…

January 26/08 – Mike & Nicole Norden came from Vancouver (President of the Vancouver Magic Circle) to stay with us for the weekend. We attended the Victoria Magic Circle’s annual Dinner/show, at the Edelweiss Hall. I even performed close up magic at this event. Again, I rested up before going out. I wasn’t tired at all.

January 26/08 – Mike Norden and I attended a magic lecture given by John Kaplan at the Langford Fire Hall. To our surprise, after the lecture, we had a snow fall of 4-5 inches. Ann was working, so I cooked supper for the Nordens and myself… again, I didn’t feel tired or sleepy…

January 28/08 – I went in for my tri-weekly blood tests. Again, my white blood count was low. At that time, my white blood count somehow dropped down to 2.5, which is extremely and dangerously low (average is 4-10). My medical team goes crazy when I’m NOT in the “average”. Ann had to give me a shot of Neupogen, a drug which brings my white blood cells up.

January 30/08 – Again, I went in for the tri-weekly blood tests. I had an 11:40am appointment with Dr. Yee (My Hematogist). Later, I had a 2:00pm Chemo appointment. After two sessions with Neupogen. This drug brought my white blood count up to 9.0 (again, average is 4-10). Nurse Ann Eng does it again. She’s the one who punctures my arm to administer this medication. Everything went very well with the chemo session. Doctor Yee put me back on 100mg of Prednisone (which periodically makes my hands and feet cramp up). Apparently, I need this drug on these “double whammy” chemo sessions… part of the over all treatment. Other than the cramps, I feel great…

January 31/08 – I had another Chemo session at 9:30am (2nd part of the “double whammy”). Neighbour Fred Allen dropped me off at Cancer Clinic. This is the “long Chemo treatment” following up session from yesterday. I brought down some books and 4 DVDs to watch during the treatment to amuse myself. The reason for the “long day is so that the medical team can monitor how I react to these medications (Vincristin aka Oncovin; Cyclophosphamide; Prednisone and Rituximab aka Rituxan). Sometimes, these drugs may cause the patients to become nauseous, get fatigue and/or sleepy, itchy, fever, hair loss or break out with hives. Ann picked me up after the treatments, to bring me home. Other than the fact it was a long session (6 hours)… so far, I’m feeling good… no side effects what-so-ever.

The bottom line is that I’m ON THE MEND!

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

HEALTH IMPROVING ...

Well, today is Thursday, January 10/08….

My radiation specialist Dr. Larrson, finally gave me a clean bill of health on my Merkel Cell Skin Cancer. I saw him on January 4/08, when he made this synopsis official. I can now wear that pin proudly that says “CANCER SURVIOUR”. Yay!

I went into the hospital 3 days prior to Christmas Eve for a Pre-chemo "check up".... Dr. Margaret Smith (Oncologist) ended up hospitalizing me for those 3 days (due to a "fever"... and I was only 2-3 degrees over normal and they really jumped on me, for this). They did let me go home to enjoy Christmas with my family.... My two “little girls” came home for a month. It's been GREAT having Julie and Sandra, visit. They’ve both since gone home…

I thought my last chemo was going to be on Christmas eve BUT they ended up doing this treatment on New years eve, instead. This Leukemia situation is still in its "beginning stages"... My medical team is just starting to get aggressive with my chemo treatments.

Now, I will be doing Chemo sessions for 5 weeks (every Monday) for January 2008. Then in February 2008, they will increase my dosage but slow down the time frame... only ONCE, every three weeks, thereafter, but spread over 24 weeks. This will take me into the summer (groan….)

I will be glad when these Chemo sessions are through. Right now, I’m taking a drug called Prednisone. They call it the "wonder drug" but it gives me cramps in my hands, especially when I'm tired. I'm GREAT from about 8:00am until about 3:00pm. Then, I must take a nap otherwise, in the early evening, I get these cramps (at least this is what I tell Ann, LOL). When I'm able to catch a "few winks" in the afternoon, I'm good for the rest of the night.

re: YMCA

I was really hoping to enter the Y Open racquetball (my partner Steve Hendry and I are the defending “B” Open champions) at the end of February 2008, but that's not going to happen...

Right now, I'm feeling fine. I was very ambitious, the other day. I helped take down the Christmas Tree; lights around the windows, etc; even vacuumed the front room; made lunch; did two loads of laundry. Then I took Ann to work and went to the Golf Range to knock a couple bucket of balls. Later, went home for a nap...

Saturday, January 5/08, Ann and I treated the girls to the Blethering Place for supper... we stayed for the Brit comedy show with the "two characters" (Eric & Mike). We had lots of fun and laughs.

Sometimes with my daily scheduling, I get choices “back to back”… as an example, I had to choose between attending a magic meeting; a Fly Fishing meeting or to Murray Hatfield’s Illusion Show. My choice this time was going to the Royal Theatre to enjoy Murray’s show. I can’t do everything as I’ve done in the past. With my White Blood count so low, I have to be very selective with my public outings ... but I will slowly get back into the swing of things...

The way I see it, I figure I’m about 5/8 of the way through these health issues and the outlook is still very positive and promising.

Julie, Sandra and especially Ann, have been very supportive with me through this whole ordeal. I certainly realize the importance of having loved ones being around to care and look after me… and just being there…

I really appreciate every ones concern with my health. I’d like to take this time to thank everybody for their continued support. Your emails, phone calls, cards, thoughts and prayers have really lifted my spirits and taken a huge weight off my shoulders.

Obituary: Tony Eng Lived a Magical Life

Former owner of Trick & Joke Shop succumbs to leukemia and skin cancer

Jeff Bell, Times Colonist

Published: Wednesday, May 07, 2008

A meeting of the Victoria Magic Circle last night turned into a memorial for one of its most accomplished members, Tony Eng, who died Sunday at the age of 61.

The hope when the meeting was planned was that Eng would present his namesake trophy to the winner of a competition for the best close-up magic trick. Instead, fellow magicians like Shayne King took time to share thoughts of a man they respected and admired.

"He taught me a lot, he gave a lot of magicians their start," said King, who managed Tony's Trick & Joke Shop for Eng. He has continued at the store since it became Murray's Trick & Joke Shop two years ago under Murray Hatfield.

Hatfield said running the store has shown him just how far-reaching Eng's influence has been. Eng's legendary demonstrations of his sleight-of-hand at the store counter were a long-time attraction, Hatfield said.

"I can't tell you how many times since we took over the shop that I've had people coming in and saying thinks like 'We're here from Bakersfield, Calif. and we were here five years ago, and it was just the high point of our trip'".

It was all because of Tony and the way he made people feel.

"Tony was a master and definitely one-of-a-kind, and he will be greatly missed by both the magic community at large and by a lot of non-magicians who just happened to come in and meet him through the shop."

Hatfield said that many people he speaks to are finding the news of Eng's death hard to believe.

"This has been such a blow. For the last three days, I've been hearing nothing but people just being in shock. Tony was such an awesome guy -- not only was he an exceptional performer and a great businessman, he just was a really nice man."

The response to his death means a great deal to the family, said Sandra Eng, one of his two daughters.

"The word is starting to ripple out there now and it touches my heart every time I hear how significantly Dad made an impact on people."

She said her father, born in Victoria in 1946, was diagnosed last October with both a form of leukemia and a rare type of skin cancer.

His fascination with magic went back to his early childhood, she said.

"He got his first magic kit when he was eight and did his first paid gig at the age of 12."

His ability as a musician had him performing at innumerable charity events over the years. He also became a Sunday night fixture at the Japanese Village restaurant, where he entertained diners for two decades.

Her father had many interests outside of magic, as well, his daughter said, and entrepreneurial skills that saw him run a successful wholesale business and establish the Premier School of Bartending.

"He loved to play racquetball. He was a fierce competitor and his Y buddies are going to sorely miss him. He also went fly-fishing, he did woodworking and he went RVing. Mom and Dad started travelling in the last few years quite a bit down south to Arizona."

A tribute is set for 3 p.m. Sunday at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church.