So funny...and so true! I'm old enough to remember when television went OFF for the night and if you were sick/awake all you had available on any channel was static. If you fell asleep to Carson it would be that annoyingly loud static that would wake you up. I'm not sure if Dirty Dancing or Abs of Steel are much better. You're right, Leroy. We've come a long way in many aspects since those days but late-night viewing is not one of them. Here's to somebody taking the reins and running decent night owl programming! Dream on...eh? :-)

Sent by Karen Laven | 7:59 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Thanks for being here. Being able to check in on a friend (and that's what I consider you now - a virtual friend) during these rough times has been very helpful.

We have biopsy results coming up and (I just found out) a heart procedure on a parent next week.

I've taken to reading books to put me to sleep.

Warm thoughts from the midwest.

Sent by Marie | 8:05 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Love your humor leroy...

I got hooked on Netflix cuz i didnt need to leave the house and could order great documentaries and such....

Sent by Jenn | 8:05 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Leroy,

I'd like to see "Braveheart" merge with "Dirty Dancing". Now that would be a movie worth seeing. I can just see Baby coming out of that corner with Mel Gibson.

Strange things happen in the middle of the night.

Cathi from PNW

Sent by Cathi | 8:26 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Hi there Leroy,

Well, here in Chicagoland, winter has hit. We got a measurable snow yesterday and through the night. It is pretty on the trees though.

You know, I have noticed some of the cable stations pick a movie and run it at least weekly or more frequently. Maybe the figure with the writers strike they will have an audience. Personally, I am still working on tapes (yes I have a VCR) from TV shows I taped, so I haven't hit the reruns yet. I know sneaky. I ration them out. :)

You know TCM has real OLD movies on late at night, may help to put you to sleep.

Rest on!

Sent by Sue Chap | 8:28 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Enjoyed your take on the movies. Have you ever tried watching "Good Eats" on the Food Channel with Alton Brown. He is funny but I don't know if they rerun it at night. Sorry the pain meds don't even help you sleep now. It is so good when you feel terrible to least be able to sleep. I wish I could put 9-hour sleep packets in a big box and send it to you as a present for Christmas because you are a Christmas present to all of us.

Sent by Maureen | 8:46 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Hey NightOwl, I will offer Netflix for you, and Laurie, but I want to be an Indian Giver... am hoping your sleep rhythem returns and you find it totally useless to have a bunch of DVD's lying about! Willing you health and sweet dreams.

Sent by Stitches | 8:49 AM ET | 12-05-2007

LMAO!!!!!!!!!!!!

This post cracked me up.

Thanks for that!

Hugs,

Lori

BTW...I do seem to curse a lot. Hmmm...side effect from chemo? Not likely.

Sent by Lori | 8:50 AM ET | 12-05-2007

I hear you Leroy. I have had sleep issues for months due to all these steroids they have me on. I have passed the time by watching TV on the internet. The major networks show full episodes that you can watch at your leisure. The volume of tv that I have watched is scary. I just bring my laptop into bed and hopr for a show that will put me to sleep.

Sent by Jill | 9:00 AM ET | 12-05-2007

you need to splurg and get a giant screen TV and net flicks. It can make all the difference.Nothing takes my mind off things like a big screen and a good movie.

Sent by gary | 9:02 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Mornin' Leroy! It is snowing here in the Shenandoah Valley this morning and it looks so Christmas-sy with the snow on the wreaths we put out on our patio. Good day to simply "hunker in".
Yes, TV has truly gotten pitiful. I am lucky, and old enough, to remember the "good ole" days of early TV, when it was all new, hammy, and experimental. What an era of ingenuity that was! Big Business and Commercials have taken it over today and I feel insulted that we buy these sets, pay a huge amount for Cable & electricity, and then are Captives of whatever they chose to put on our screens. Do you think that we would ever be able to "get back to the future" a bit and have some creative, original, type of programming once again? It used to even be fun to watch the flaws and mistakes the TV performers would make in front of the cameras in the then "new Media". Leroy, could you tape some of the better movies during the day to play back in the wee hours of the morning when you are wide awake?
However, you do sound better and better every day!

Sent by J C R | 9:09 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Hi Leroy,
How about books on CD to listen to in the middle of the night? This way, your eyes can be closed and you can pretend to be sleeping. Another way to pass some time without expending much energy.
Take care and keep healing.

Sent by JJG | 9:12 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Hi Leroy,

At least you are not hooked on one of those shopping channels and emptying your bank account! During my chemo i was stuck in bed for at least a week after each treatment and I have to admit I did get some retail therapy in. Glad you are sleeping a little bit better,

Lianne

Sent by Lianne Friedman | 9:16 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Just after we tell you it's ok to be depressed, you suprise and delight by cracking us up. I really like your style Mr. Sievers. I hope you're starting to feel better.

p.s. audio books?

Sent by Nichole in FL | 9:24 AM ET | 12-05-2007

I'd suggest Netflix or Blockbuster at home. Lot's to choose from!!
I hope you are feeling better soon.

As always, you are in my prayers

Sent by Ronni | 9:25 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Leroy, you are simply the best. It takes a lot to get a laugh out of me in the morning, but you never fail. Thanks for that.

I'm not a late-night/early-morning tv person -- more likely to read a book (or just lie there worrying) when I can't sleep, which is often, due to meds. But this post may make me go out and rent Braveheart, as I've only seen it once. Or maybe that's going too far... But I do seem to remember those kilts were great.

Snow here in OH too, Sue. Really our first of the winter. It is pretty on the trees, isn't it?

Sent by jordis | 9:31 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Dear Leroy,

I haven't posted a comment before, but I have a suggestion for those long nights- audiobooks. Your local library will have a large selection of books on CD or tape. Six years ago I had a complete hysterectomy at the same time I was undergoing radiation therapy for breast cancer. Talk about a recipe for insomnia. Hot flashes on the hour along with the anxiety of cancer treatment. I checked out some audiobooks and they helped me sleep.

On another note, I really appreciate your thoughtful and inspiring posts. When I hear people complain about getting older, it annoys me because they fail to realize their good fortune. Getting old is a privilege. Thank you for the daily reminder that every day is a gift.

Sent by Linda | 9:34 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Leroy, you got my favorite line! But now it's going to be "Nobody puts Leroy in a corner!"

Thanks for reminding me that there are little laughs out there even when the going is rough...

Your fan,
Daphne

Sent by Daphne | 9:37 AM ET | 12-05-2007

As one who has spent many hours up alone at night, I have one word for you -- TIVO. Record the shows you do want to watch (or don't mind so much) and then watch them at your 3am convenience, sans commercials.

Also, I'm quite fond of audiobooks (I won't mention another brand name). I download them on my ah, er, mp3 device, and listen to them whenever entertainment is needed. You can listen to podcasts, too! This is very good for when the eyes aren't working well enough for reading, and can be quite a bit less of a brain drain than the TV.

And, of course, a certain ubiquitous online music store also offers downloadable movies and seasons of TV shows. I thoroughly enjoyed watching season one of The Office, a show I love but didn't start watching till season two.

I am so glad that you are getting more sleep.

Sent by jane | 9:39 AM ET | 12-05-2007

That's why God invented the computer :-) so we night owls wouldn't be tortured by paid programming and C movies at 2 am. Try tylenol if they'll let you have it, it's uncommonly effective. I learned that when I had bone pain from Taxotere...oxycontins did not work nearly as well as Tylenol did (the doctor *did* scold me for taking too many at once tho'). Healing is such messy work, its timetable beyond our control. You have such a fighting spirit, Leroy, and your expectations are pretty high (a good thing). So I think you will heal up quickly and well. Infection begone!

Sent by Alycia Keating | 9:46 AM ET | 12-05-2007

My thoughts exactly Leroy~~: )

It's really uplifting to see that you are feeling better~~gosh I remember so vividly.

Just when you feeling like giving up, something small happens to make you realize that it's behind you.

Today is a good day Leroy,
Warm hugs your way,
Robin
CT.

Sent by Robin T | 9:57 AM ET | 12-05-2007

How about Netflicks?

Sent by Becky | 9:58 AM ET | 12-05-2007

At least you find some relief with TV. I read and fall asleeep. This morning I was falling asleep reading the newspaper - very strange for me. My husband falls asleep watching TV but it doesn't do it for me very well except in the late afternoon or early evening. I'm sorry your pain meds aren't working - please ask your docs for something stronger (there's no shame to that and if you need morphine so be it). You should not have to suffer any pain.

Sent by Vicki (FL) | 10:03 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Leroy,
I like Sue's suggestion - try the old movies on TCM. There are some gems playing there. And why don't you ask for movie "loans" from your friends and family? We all love when someone asks us for a recommendation for a good film, and I own most of my favorites.

Just an idea....

Sent by Lesa in Kansas | 10:07 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Good Morning Leroy,
I agree with you about the late night TV and that is why when I go to the store and find cheap DVD movies, I buy them and store them away for times when there is nothing else to watch. Some of them may be a little "cheesy" but it beats the late night reruns. Maybe you can try doing that. You sound like you feel somewhat better today. I'm really glad for that. Relax and keep on healing so the night will come when you are catching z-z-z's instead of reruns. Take care....

Sent by Teresa in WV | 10:20 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Well said!! LOL

Sent by Linda | 10:43 AM ET | 12-05-2007

I think I'm hearing the feisty LeRoy beginning to emerge. Congratulations and welcome back!

Sent by Kathy B. | 10:56 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Dear Leroy,
One week-end after chemo I watched a This Old House marathon from start to finish. By Sunday night me and Bob Vila were tight. I knew I could build a house by myself if I could just lift the hammer.
Hang in there, friend. And watch out for that loud-talking exercise machine salesman...

Sent by Pat mcRee | 11:10 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Good morning Leroy,
Not sleeping is the pits! I have always felt blessed that 99% of the time I sleep well.
You are right about the stations buying up a small number of movies and showing them over and over again. Have you tried watching Lifetime for Women. If those movies with all their angst don't put you to sleep nothing will.
I do my best sleeping in a chair at the end of any TV program I am watching. I fell asleep before the end of Boston Legal last night so I don't know if Denny Crane was found not guilty of being a pervert in the men's room.
I pray you have a good day!
Charlotte in Temecula

Sent by Charlotte Kewish | 11:14 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Hi Leroy. I've been away without computer access for awhile. So it was a pleasant surprise when I checked the blog this morning and found you talking about bad night owl TV. Now don't get me wrong. I wish you were able to sleep through the night and didn't need the distraction of TV. But as far as your postings go (or postings from others on your behalf), coming back to a posting about bad TV didn't seem so bad after all.

I just looked out the window and noticed that it was snowing. A nice little surprise. Wishing you a nice surprise today, too.

Best wishes,
Jon

Sent by Jon Manchester | 11:27 AM ET | 12-05-2007

LOL- now that last comment made me laugh!! Too funny. I've been watching Christmas with the Kranks and Elf that are on every night it seems. They both are good for laughs. Take care Leroy.

Sent by DiAnn | 11:27 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Ah, the middle of the night...the BEST time to crank up your PC or laptop and make friends via web sites on any topic you might imagine. Those Aussies and Kiwis are wide awake and ready to chat all "night" long.

Internet access saved my sanity (or most of it) during the months of chemo wakefulness.

Peggy

Sent by Peggy | 11:27 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Hi Leroy
Well it least it sounds like you are in good spirits. I have a DVD player but still haven't hooked it up. When I get bored I watch HBO on Demand. You can even watch the whole Six Feet Under season, which I highly recommend.

I met with my radiology oncologist this morning and am signed up to be "fitted" for my radiation treatment. He did mention chemo because of the 1-2% invasive cells and my "young" age (54). My other two doctors said no chemo, so I am hoping we can stick with that.

And the snow here in DC is really pretty, but slick, so be careful.

Sent by Dianne (DC) | 11:28 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Leroy, I must admit to being a TCM junkie, to the point of ridicule by my family. They often have really obscure and often hilariously bad movies on in the middle of the night. Not knowing what's going on and lack of a recognizable plot tends to put me right back to sleep.

Sent by Gretchen Hoag | 11:34 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Oh my gosh, you have me laughing at work, I think everyone is either staring at me or wondering what is wrong with me. Too good... And so true. Thanks, Leroy!

Sent by Christina in Seattle | 11:34 AM ET | 12-05-2007

AH Leroy,
Try C-Span and see if that puts you to sleep. That's what I do when I'm traveling. I am used to going to sleep with a shortwave radio in my ear. There are some real nuts out there and sometimes I wake back up laughing at the latest conspiracy theory. The preachers are the pride of the pack. These guys are really in far right field-out of the park may be a better analogy.
I don't own a TV, so I depend on radio. I'm a NPR junkie but they can't beat the wierdos on shortwave.

Sent by Nancy | 11:46 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Leroy and readers,
This is a good day. Leroy feels good today, although sleepy from late-night TV. Late night is so bad that I cannot understand why it doesn't put to to sleep.
The reason I know that you are having a good day is your writing -- not the content. When you feel poorly, your essays are short and terse. There is a certain effort, understandably, to pound it out. Today your observations are relaxed and the piece is longer. Hooray!
Now I am not critizing, this is just an observation and one that let's me know how you really are each day.
Peace this holiday season.

Sent by Deborah of Asheville, NC | 11:50 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Leroy, It's so good to get to read your blog so often. I'm where you must be at times and countless others. I have slept 1 hr thus far on this Wednesday night. I find that the most popular info-commercial to me seems to be the Jack LaLaynne (probably can't spell that either ha ...not looking at his name just that machine) and his juice machine. Why have I not ordered that one that you can put a whole apple in at a time without having to cut it up? Just watching the commercial makes me start to feel healthier, like going into a natural food store that carries organic foods. I have a vita-mix blender but do you think that juicer would work better? Hmmm perhaps people can let me and you know. LOL Does it seem that people's gift wish lists get more expensive? When we're not working do they think we're made of money? Ha! Truth is, if I had lots of money, I'd want to get things for people who need it and enjoy every second of the "giving" part.

I've two original Christmas songs on my myspace website. Hope you listen to them and enjoy them. I'm getting old and wish to share them. The site is:
www.myspace.com/lindasublettoriginals

Have a wonderful holiday season filled with laughter, genuine friends and family members who surround you with love and share many memories amongst you. Aren't those priceless things so important to us?
Linda Sublett-Warner
Sacramento, CA

Sent by Linda Sublett-Warner | 11:51 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Turner Classic Movies helped me get through my chemo experience. I would turn it on first thing in the morning, and watch until bedtime. Of course, I am an old movie buff -- cannot believe that the movies I saw at the local theater when I was 10 years old can now be seen in my living room. Magic! Anyhow, Leroy, if you can get TCM, you might find relief from those oldies, but goodies.

Sent by Marilyn Trujillo | 11:57 AM ET | 12-05-2007

Great to hear a sparkle of humor coming back, Leroy. What an emotional roller coaster we all are going through. You just express it so beautifully and give us all the thread to keep holding on to.

Hugs from the soggy Pacific NW.

Sent by Bonita | 12:01 PM ET | 12-05-2007

Leroy,

If you'll tell us where we can send them, we can all mail our favorite movies to you. I have some really good ones!

Loved the humor this morning...a good sign.

Sent by Diana Kitch | 12:01 PM ET | 12-05-2007

Leroy-
I've taken to watching QVC or the shopping channel recently. I don't buy anything- ever. (really!) I couldn't figure out why- until it dawned on me:

Everyone in QVC-land is happy. Everything is shiny and sparkly and new. No one is sick or has complaints. There is no cancer in QVC-land. It's all happiness all the time.

You might want to give it a try.

Sent by Elizabeth in Brooklyn | 12:06 PM ET | 12-05-2007

Leroy, there's a great 30-min infomercial for some Midnight Special DVDs that runs, appropriately, at midnight. Maybe it's on where you are, too--you'd be surprised how many times you can watch an eight-second clip of Blondie's "Heart of Glass." Also recommended: the Jack LaLane (sp?) Power Juicer infomercial. Mute it and do your own commentary. Laugh. Repeat.

No matter what, we're here for you. Day, night, good mood, sorry-for-yourself... we're here and reading and caring through anything. Even repeated showings of "Braveheart."

Sent by Jess Neiweem | 12:07 PM ET | 12-05-2007

While my life was "on hold", I signed up for Net Flix and tried to watch the American Film Institute's Top 100. I was surprised by some really good movies: Treasure of the Sierra Madre, The Searchers, to name a couple, and I still watch the movies I've recorded on DVR to get to my "sleepy place". It's miserable to be awake in the middle of the night--I understand totally. But, it sounds like you're making progress toward getting more hours of sleep a night, and that's a good thing. You're headed in the right direction. Peace,

Sent by Pamela | 12:28 PM ET | 12-05-2007

While my life was "on hold", I signed up for Net Flix and tried to watch the American Film Institute's Top 100. I was surprised by some really good movies: Treasure of the Sierra Madre, The Searchers, to name a couple, and I still watch the movies I've recorded on DVR to get to my "sleepy place". It's miserable to be awake in the middle of the night--I understand totally. But, it sounds like you're making progress toward getting more hours of sleep a night, and that's a good thing. You're headed in the right direction. Peace,

Sent by Pamela | 12:28 PM ET | 12-05-2007

You could rent movies via mail or download them online through Itunes!!

That might help a bit ;).

Rachel

Sent by Rachel | 12:51 PM ET | 12-05-2007

LOL Cathi!!
Mel Gibson storms into the dance hall and rescues Baby!
haha

Sent by Jenn | 12:59 PM ET | 12-05-2007

I know the time will come when I have to deal with those late night movies and I dread it. I worry so much about being bored while I die. For right now I'm still working and feeling good. Saw one surgeon this morning and he might consider removing the lung mets but only if the liver guy will do those. I see the liver guy Friday, but I am not optimistic. I am also scheduled to try the drug, which put in the hospital over thanksgiving again this Friday, something I am not looking forward to. Have you thought about renting movies for those long nights. I would think even the 24 series might help pass the time. I really do hope the writers can get a decent settlement so they can return. Many of us can't wait all that long for the rest of our seasons. Peace

Sent by Dona | 1:11 PM ET | 12-05-2007

Wonderful you are sleeping better. Nice to hear, and I'm sure you are quite pleased by it.

It is distressing that the pain medications don't seem to be working well any more.

Sent by Scott S. | 1:21 PM ET | 12-05-2007

Oh boy. What you need are some good hearings. Maybe an impeachment, a controversial Supreme Court appointment, an arms deal gone bad. Any of these would help get you through the night or put you to sleep, one or the other. Yes, you could definitely use a good hearing. Wishing you restful nights!

Sent by Mary Beth | 1:32 PM ET | 12-05-2007

I had to write to you after hearing about your late night TV watching saga. I think I have a great alternative for you!! I have Sirius radio and happened upon a wonderful channel yesterday called Radio Classics. It???s Channel 118 and they play all of the old radio shows. Since November 23, they have been airing shows that have to do with Christmas. It is just delightful and, although I am too young to have experienced listening to the radio instead of TV myself, I clearly remember my father and grandfather recounting many stories about those days. I feel as though I can actually "see" the characters. Anyway, I recommend it highly to you and hope it will bring you as much pleasure as it has brought to me. All my best to you Leroy.

Sent by Joanne Ford | 1:56 PM ET | 12-05-2007

Dear Leroy - thanks for the great out loud laughs today! You must be feeling better - I know I am after reading your "tribute" to late night TV.

Sent by Peggy in MN | 2:26 PM ET | 12-05-2007

my laugh of the day!
Thanks Leroy, you are a riot!

PS
nobody puts baby in the corner
LOL, and my accents actually sound
real good "only" at 3am

lol

Sent by karen | 2:36 PM ET | 12-05-2007

Dear Leroy,

You are feeling better. You cracked me up today. I got the funniest visual of you mouthing the dialogue from Braveheart at 3:00 a.m. Probably not that funny to you; I know you'll be so thankful to leave Mel and Baby behind and sleep all night. Never could stand "Baby", the pouting little trollop. Can Laurie sleep with all those cries of "Freedom!" for Scotland as poor Mel goes to the rack? What about "the dish"? It has many more crappy options for late-night TV viewing, if you gotta be up.

Better times are coming. Hang in there. May the Lord Bless and Keep you.

Sent by Connie E. | 2:40 PM ET | 12-05-2007

Good stuff, Leroy.

Maybe while watching Braveheart with the sound off, you could start writing your own dialog for it :).

Might end up with a brand new movie for late night if you aren't careful.

Hope and humor!

Sent by Tidewater Joe | 2:43 PM ET | 12-05-2007

Gotta luv that sense of humor..........got my chuckle for the day. Be well dear friend.

Sent by Sasha | 3:29 PM ET | 12-05-2007

Leroy, you are my Person of the Year. without fail, you make me feel better whenever I read you daily blog. But, by comparison, my cancer -- NHL -- is a piece of cake compared to the hellish combination you have faced. Take care, great communicator, and know there are millions praying and rooting for you.

Sent by John Brady | 3:39 PM ET | 12-05-2007

Leroy, Have you gotten a LCD big screen HDTV yet? We did for Christmas and I just love it. I don't even mind watching commercials because the picture is so beautiful, the colors so vivid, it's just the greatest thing, especially during the Christmas season all the pretty lights etc. They are definitely worth the money. We mounted ours on the wall and it's just wonderful. Don't forget 24 will be back soon, YAY! Take care Leroy and soak in the fact that you are here for another Christmas.

Sent by Ruth White | 3:49 PM ET | 12-05-2007

Leroy - this note is just for you, sort of an FYI. I wrote awhile back telling you that I had so much trouble with staph infections, and had to have my central line for months at a time, too (and, of course, that was while I was going through breast cancer treatment also). Nothing is easy. I found that the IV anitibiotics "wired" me and made it hard to sleep, even when I was dead tired. I noticed that after the drugs had left my system - a week or so, I slept better. And that happened EVERY time I took them. So, your good sleep is coming, too; it will just take some time. I think of you and Laurie every day, and pray to give you strength. God Bless. Jeanette Carney

Sent by Jeanette Carney | 4:20 PM ET | 12-05-2007

My husband, who is definitely an insomniac, would agree with the 15 movie assessment! He is fond of IFC--we've actually come across some excellent movies there even if you do have to read subtitles occasionally. Or you could try RFD-TV and watch the polka show, the tractor pull competitions or learn to train a horse. Broaden your late night horizons! You might have to get a satellite dish, though to transcend the mundane.

Sent by Kitty Jungkind | 5:22 PM ET | 12-05-2007

Leroy:

Too bad Dr. Gene Scott isn't still on late night TV. He is the only televangelist I ever saw who would sit and insult people for not sending him money. After all, God wanted him to have all those show horses. We watched because we couldn't believe people put up with such insults.

You could try telekinesis. If you get really good at bending spoons, you could try running the vacuum cleaner. That surely would put you to sleep, it does my kids...just joking.

Glad you are feeling better.

Stephine D: Is it going any better today?

Nikki

Sent by Nikki | 8:00 PM ET | 12-05-2007

hi leroy, just want to tell you you are an inspiration for many and it takes alot of courage and true grit doing what you,doing. my wife Bella also had problems sleeping and of course pain controll at times. she used to like for me to read to her at bedtimes, sometimes it would be the bible or purpose driven life,sometimes your blogs, we followed your progress and she loved your writing. thanks for giving others some hope. continue what you are doing giving others hope, it does make a difference. thank you, kenny williams

Sent by kenny williams | 9:28 PM ET | 12-05-2007

I echo Jane's remarks, upstream, about getting yourself a TiVO box. I bought one just before I started chemo. Consider it as essential medical equipment - when there's so little about your life you can control, at least you can control what you watch on TV!

Carl
"A Pastor's Cancer Diary"
http:/www.cewilton.blogspot.com

Sent by Carl Wilton | 11:57 PM ET | 12-05-2007

Lerpoy, You must be feeling better, you are back to complaining about the ppor quality of TV. Didn't you have something to do with some of this? Anyway, it is good to hear you complain. Being part Scot I'm not sure you should practice speaking indiscernably, it could hamper your comeback. Stan

Sent by Stan Wozniak | 12:52 AM ET | 12-06-2007

Dear Leroy,
I wanted to say I am glad to know I am not the only one who stays awake all night, the TV on all the time, trying to catch a few z's here and there. I am sorry to hear the medications are not working for you any longer and agree that perhaps you should check with the doctor on that issue. Sleep deprivation does a horrible thing to the healing process, and I hope you can get some RELIEF very soon from all your pain.

Thanks again, for all your honesty and for being straightforward with us about what is going on with you. I know, as many others have said, it helps me to know I am not so alone in this horrific battle, and my habits are not as unusual as I thought they were. You have helped me so much by opening up to all of us. Thank you, once again.

Love, Briana

Sent by Briana | 1:02 AM ET | 12-06-2007

WOW!! what great news. Enjoy your new "freedom", Leroy. You deserve it.
You have made me feel better.
Thank you.
Peter

Sent by Peter in Colorado | 9:42 AM ET | 12-06-2007

enjoy the lack of drains, the wonderful day we have today. we are all praying for you. and for added strength.

Sent by bernie cape cod | 2:19 PM ET | 12-06-2007

Hi Leroy,
A little late for this post, but have a TV suggestion from my recovery time: nature. There are some HD sunrise sorts of shows; just camera and sound focused on a mountaintop or stream ... very soothing. No voice-overs. Just nature. Might be worth supplementing broadcast with some DVDs. Christmas wish list stuff?
I haven't been a regular visitor for a couple a few months. Was almost afraid to pop in. Afraid you might not be here. I don't think you realize how much you've become the "wind beneath (our) wings." Very happy you're still here for us to coast along with you.
Smooth sailing, Leroy, and Merry Christmas

Sent by Lorraine | 3:46 PM ET | 12-13-2007