You're sleeping pretty well!! I'd say that counts as 2 steps forward and none backwards. Way to go, Leroy. And, as always, you're thinking of others.
Prayers for you and Laurie, and all of you out there.

Sent by Laura | 7:42 AM ET | 01-31-2008

When I was on couch arrest following surgery, a friend bought me the first season of Lost. I had never been able to watch more than a show here and there. I planned my "schedule" so that I was allowed to watch two episodes a day.

If anyone has a friend sentenced to the couch or recliner, I highly recommend getting them a pack of DVDs for their favorite show or movies. It saves you from the cruelty of daytime TV ;-)

Sent by Karen D. | 7:45 AM ET | 01-31-2008

I am lately getting movies and t.v. shows mailed to me, i can watch the t.v. shows i missed or cant get without commercials, its great!

Sent by Jenn | 7:56 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Dear Leroy,
That was too funny this morning. Yes, TV has gotten a tad bit ridiculous, and those of us who need to turn on the TV sometimes for variety, do not have much choice in what we can watch.
I am tired of the news....and I use the term loosely.
So I am back to finding the best books I can, or re-reading all my old favorites.....Pride and Prejudice never fails.
Blessings
Wanda Amorose

Sent by Wanda Amorose | 7:59 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Oh Leroy,

I totally agree, bailed on Lost season one, I never missed an episode and still couldn't follow it. I am a Survivor and Amazing Race buff. I cheered when Nate and Jen got eliminated, didn't like her at all. Don't tell me who won Amazing Race, I haven't watched the tape YET and some how I have managed to miss any news about it. American Gladiators not me, I do agree about the spandex. If only I could wear it.

I manage to find CSI somewhere, and now NCIS is cropping up too. At least on Friday Mr. Monk is back.

We all need this writer's strike to END!

Glad to read you ARE SLEEPING BETTER!

Sent by Sue Chap | 8:15 AM ET | 01-31-2008

You sound better this morning Leroy. Isn't sleep wonderful? And, although I completely agree with you that the fare on TV is pitiful these days, how do you feel about all this Election stuff, and as an old Reporter, where is the World News? Aren't they blocking the "War news" so that it doesn't influence the voting? A bit much, I think.
I cannot help but wonder though, WHAT we all did before TV became so much a part of our lives. I can remember the days before TV sets were part of our existence and the radio was our only deversion and contact with the outside world. Talk about your "grey days"!
But today is definately NOT a grey day. It is bright and sunny, though cold, here in VA. Hope you have a good day Leroy. Isn't it wonderful to feel well enough to gripe?

Sent by J C R | 8:24 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Nor me.

I've never watch Law and Order, or CSI, which also seems to have placed its reruns on numerous channels. I'm ashamed to admit that I've always been hooked on Survivor, and that's starting again next week. But the best tv I've watched in some time is the PBS series on Jane Austen. Perhaps it lands in the realm of chick-flickdom, but everyone can do with lit-inspired tv.

The series is airing movies of Jane's books, some completely new productions. I just watched this week the Mansfield Park movie -- utterly fabulous. It runs every Sunday evening, I think? Get it going on your DVR. They're going to run the BBC version of Pride and Prejudice with Colin Firth, the only REAL version of this incredible book.

Other than these, Leroy, you're right. TV is a huge wasteland these days. And there aren't any great movies out either -- mostly dreck. As pathetic as it sounds, I am even looking forward to the Super Bowl.

Sent by jordis | 8:34 AM ET | 01-31-2008

PBS has good Jane Austen on Sunday nights! People have mentioned Netflix before. I do think the key is to think beyond TV. The Teaching Company (see google) has great audiotapes, DVDs, and CDs by college professors on those subjects you wish you took in college- astronomy, Shakespeare, music, religion, etc. They often have sales, and the course also often can be found at public libraries. They're not for every night maybe, but they can be really absorbing if you have a secret passion for some topic...

Sent by Barbara K. | 8:42 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Leroy, I can relate to your post today, I am not the sick, bedridden, fighting chemo or recovering, I am the "lonely". Boy, I think I know that TV by heart. I never watched much TV, I had other things to do. Now I don't, so the TV has become my "noise" in my quiet world without Neil. I stay busy, I take my dogs for walks, I visit friends and I am out there actively looking for work! I used to read with Neil all the time but right now, I have trouble picking up a book. So, for now, I can never get enough of those MASH reruns and I can't wait to see Desperate Housewives again! Somedays, TV is all I have to combat my loneliness....and I am grateful for that!

Sent by Laurie Hirth | 8:49 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Fortunately, I am a political junkie so I have CNN and MSNBC. I am also a big tennis fan so the Australian Open kept me well occupied during my recent RFA. With this lung surgery scheduled when there are not any major tournaments and after SUPER Tuesday it may be slim pickings. I'm not a Reality TV person. Hopefully you can find some good old movies. You are right though we certainly deserve better TV. Peace,

Sent by Dona | 9:05 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Hi, Leroy.

I watched a lot of Food TV when I was recuperating from my last surgery in October. The chefs can be very entertaining. I'm pleased to see you well enough to care about the lack of quality programming and how it affects all of us.

Thank you for that.

My best to you and Laurie.

Erica

Sent by Erica | 9:06 AM ET | 01-31-2008

I'm so glad to hear you are sleeping well now...that is a great improvement.

My mom is raving about that new Terminator TV show.

Sent by Nichole in fL | 9:23 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Leroy:
It sounds like a perfect time for some tapes on Meditation/Relaxation. Your situation, and that of all Cancer Country citizens, calls for the kind of healing that this kind of quiet time provides. There are many, many sources- sound, video, internet. One that I use is on the internet at www.thewellnesscommunity.org. Just go to "site map", then to "support", then to "mind and body room". There you'll find a 22 minute session on guided imagery and relaxation. It really works!
Love, Don

Sent by don winslow | 9:29 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Leroy - when I was couch bound during surgeries and chemo - I remember saying often that I could understand why people would develop depression, etc., if they were left to watch daytime tv too often - now the evening programs fall in the same category! ha ha
Glad you're sleeping well - and you sound better........here's to a peaceful day........

Sent by Ruth Chermok | 9:32 AM ET | 01-31-2008

I also can watch any Law and Order whenever it's on. My husband doesn't like it but he can watch anything with John Wayne anytime it's on. I think he know most of the dialogues by heart.

I was home for 8 months due to my 3rd breast cancer recurrence and spent most days watching the cooking and travel channels. Now I don't want to look at it at all. But I can always watch for Law and Order.

I'm happy that I have been able to go back to work. By the time I get home and have dinner I usually fall asleep on the couch by 8.

Prayers for you and Laurie as always.

Linda

Sent by Linda | 9:33 AM ET | 01-31-2008

You said it Leroy. Thank God the pre-convention stuff is practically riveting. I am watching CNN most of the time and finding other things to do. I love the National Geographic channel but there's only so much of that I can take before I want some escapism, dammit! I never did see the 3rd season of LOST so I will have to rent that, and wait until season 4 comes out to rent that, too. But it's been so long, I've forgotten where they all were. I miss my Heroes, total teenager-type escape. The writers do deserve to be treated better -- they are the show! -- and I hope they resolve their strike soon. And I hope you feel well enough to go on a real walk soon, too. Some "level 1" activities can go a long way to alleviating boredom!

Sent by Alycia Keating | 9:46 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Netflix, Netflix, Netflix! You can watch movies, documentaries, recent TV series that you missed or oldies that you want to watch again. Sooo worth it!

Sent by Ann | 9:47 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Hi Leroy,
How wonderful that you are sleeping better. I have always thought it was a gift from God that I sleep well 99.9% of the time.
You are right about TV. I have been reduced to watching American Idol Tryouts. Am I imagining it or have they softened Simon's persona???
I will be glad when the strike is over and shows are back on with some regularity.
Shows I like are Criminal Minds, Shark, Desperate Housewives (hate to confess this), Life, Prison Break, Jericho, Big Shots...wow, I must watch way too much TV. I also must confess that I have been watching Days of Our Lives off and on for over thirty years. You don't have to watch soaps every day to keep up on the recurring tragic story lines.
Like Jordis I may even watch the Super Bowl even though I am not a big sports fan.
I have been reading again and just finished Sue Grafton's T if for Trespass. I hadn't read her "S" book so got it from the library yesterday.
Have a great day Leroy and get another good night of sleep.
Charlotte in PA

Sent by Charlotte Kewish | 9:53 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Hi Leroy,
Too funny, thanks for the laugh! I love Law and Order and completely agree. Of course when I was going thru chemo I got hooked on the shopping channels, I must admit I did buy a few things but my bank account stayed intact, thank God. Glad to hear you are sleeping better. How is your vision?

May you have better days than not,

Lianne

Sent by Lianne Friedman | 9:57 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Who ever came up with the idea of "reality " tv any way. First of all, it is nothing like my reality. But more importantly, I personally have enough of my own reality. I watch TV to be entertained. To forget about my own day to day troubles. I watched a great old movie last night with Bette Davis and James Cagney, a comedy no less. Wish I could remember the title, it had me laughing out loud. Now that is what I call good tv.

Sent by Theresa Lovin, Michigan | 10:09 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Now that's funny! Monsters in spandex...
What crap eh?

So we have a zillion stations to watch and really what is there? Nada. You zip through the channels over and over and eventually you settle for something. Evening news, blah, blah, blah. Tell us something we don't know or at least something encouraging! Tell us how there are new discoveries in fighting cancer or new cures. Now THAT would be worth watching.

I do enjoy watching Sponge Bob with my grandson. That Patrick is a hoot!

So enough of that. Thanks Leroy. You are a gem.

God Bless you!

Judy

Sent by Judy Voller | 10:10 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Dear Leroy,

At least you ARE sleeping through the night most of the time. No more mouthing the words to Braveheart over and over or watching Dirty Dancing for the 100th time (with the volume down - pure unadulterated hell). I continue to pray for your comfort level to improve and your body to heal. God Bless.

Sent by Connie | 10:11 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Leroy
My dear friend, Jean, died yesterday from her return of cancer. Your thoughts about good tv brought her to mind...she deserved better too, but cancer robbed her of her eyesight in the last weeks and even bad tv was not an option for her. Till the very end, she was always gracious asking about my girls and my dear husband. The pain was tremendous for her and near the end she asked that our prayers for her first be directed toward easing the pain. She will be remembered tomorrow by family and friends as a wonderful teacher, friend, mother, wife, daughter, sister...a devoted lover of good books and Ocracoke Island where she grew up. What a waste to lose such a wonderful person in such a wicked way. She read your posts every day till she could no longer see well and loved your humor. Long live her sweet memory...

Sent by Pat A | 10:12 AM ET | 01-31-2008

May I recommend TiVo? You can search shows by title, genre or subject and it records it so you can play it back "whenever" (even 3am). You can also do as I will tonight: watch one show (LOST) and tape another (Dem debate). I don't have cancer, but I do have middle of the night demons (occasional insomnia, children, late night husband)so it is a comfort knowing something is always there.

New favorite show for killing time: myth busters. These guys (and a couple of women) go to extremes to find out if various things are possible. Interesting and entertaining.

And no: good tv is a reasonable request.

Jordis: Thanks for the Jane Austin tip! Will tivo it now!

Sent by Liz L. | 10:13 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Leroy~ I just discovered I can rent movies from my library for free. Thats a bargain. And they have whole seasons of shows. On Feb 12th, the reality show called "Big Brother" is starting. Its quite entertaining and more real than the rest. So check it out.

Sent by DiAnn | 10:16 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Now I am starting to understand why they call TV " The Boob Tube "

Prayers to you and Laurie/

Sent by Sasha | 10:20 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Hey Leroy, Laurie and All,

Leroy, It's a great morning to hear that you are sleeping better and that you are energetic enoough to complain about the offerings on daytime tv. I totally agree, most of it can be filed under UGH! But have you tried the Hallmark Channel? If you like the old shows many are available there. As for all the commercials, even my 12 year old granddaughter complains about them.

Laurie, I hope you are finding some good times too. It's been a l;ong haul.

To All, Maybe we can swamp the local stations with enough complaints that they will improve the tv programming. Ya think? Have a great day and God Bless!!

Eileen Pruyne
Charlotte, NC.

Sent by Eileen Pruyne | 10:26 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Wanta' really have some fun, Leroy? Order the first 2 seasons of PeeWee's Playhouse on DVD...such a hoot and confirmation that the world is indeed crazy and you might as well not be waiting for "normal" to pop in.
Love and a hug from Pat in Memphis

Sent by Pat McRee | 10:35 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Try some old TV series on DVDs. So far we've seen Wonderfalls (great!), Dead like Me, Firefly (great too), seven years of Buffy and five of Angel and one of Bones. No commercials and there when I can't sleep...which by the way, Leroy, it's so good to hear that you are sleeping better. Have you looked at a LazyBoy Big Man leather recliner? We have had ours for 13 years and I have slept in it often. Brookstone also carries a unique 'astronaut' pillow material that is very soft but supportive. Might help you make your nest.

Sent by glenda | 10:35 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Leroy- sleeping better? What did you do? Did I miss you buying a new bed or chair? Will have to go back a few days.Now I'm Lost! Anyway TV is getting old after being home for 2 years now. Although if they make one more ESPN station for my husband to watch I think I will break our TV. He is never bored. Reading is best. At one point I had 3 books going. Kite Runner, Playing For Pizza, and a nutrition book. Still reading Kite Runner - Finished Playing for Pizza it was a quick easy read. The nutrition book I gave up on beacuse I knew I would never keep up with the diets they recommend I love my chocolate way to much. I also read The Innocent Man. As you can tell I am a Grisham fan and not the one on CSI. Now it is on to The Appeals to add to my collection of multipul books to read at once. They help to either pass the time or put me relaxed enough to sleep. Best sleeping pill there is relaxing your mind and forgetting your troubles for awhile. So enjoy Lost or whatever it takes to take your pain away that is all that matters.

Sent by Cathy | 10:39 AM ET | 01-31-2008

The Sopranos (on DVD) got me through weeks of post-surgery...especially that first week, when I couldn't really move. My husband would get me in the comfy chair, glass of wine or a beer close at hand (and lots of water--it was an unbelievably hot summer), and we'd watch three or four episodes in a row. What else are ya gonna do? That was actually our introduction to good TV shows; we've never had cable, and are otherwise limited to 1.5 PBS stations (depends on where the antenna is which is the 1 and which is the .5). Sopranos, Deadwood, Battlestar Galactica, Rome (a beautiful show...Sopranos before they crossed the pond), The Wire--all have gotten us through many long winter, and summer, nights.

And that first summer, always a movie on Tuesday night, after chemo. But we decided that in addition to PG and R ratings and such, there needs to be another one: C, for "someone in the movie has or had cancer". Every single time...it's amazing how ubiquitous that is in backstories.

Peace
jj

Sent by Joan Jones | 10:45 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Leroy,

I would suggest Netflix or something like Tivo. There are often reruns of stuff I haven't seen. If you have Tivo, you can record them. What is easily accessible is boring.

BTW, the fact that you are grousing about the quality of entertainment says a lot!

Sent by Diana Kitch | 10:46 AM ET | 01-31-2008

I'm glad you're sleeping better. That always helps. As far a TV goes, mindless or funny is always good. Laughter is a great medicine!! Try some of the British comedies on PBS or BBC America. Better yet, join Netflix and get what you want in the mail. It's so easy and not expensive. Lots of the old and funny TV series. I like Foyle's War which is a British drama series. (I, too, always watch the Law and Order reruns!!) But I highly recommend laughing. So look on PBS for a good comedy, or join Netflix. It's easy and fun! Just go to Netflix.com. In the meantime, you are in my thoughts and prayers every day, Leroy.

Sent by Lyn Banghart | 10:50 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Dear Leroy,
I will give you a big high five on the bad TV. Here is what I have done to help eliminate that problem. When I am at a movie rental place and see used movies for sale (cheap) I will buy a few and just lay them back. When the TV is crappy, I just put in a DVD and I am watching something new and exciting. Hope this will work for you and others out there. Have a good day.

Sent by Teresa in WV | 10:51 AM ET | 01-31-2008

I know what you mean about Law and Order. What does it say about us that mind candy is based on violent crime. You could always go back to episode 1 of Battlestar Galactica and watch from the beginning. pure pleasure in a box without the commercials. Rach in VA

Sent by Rach | 10:52 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Ha! You really gave me a good laugh this morning, Leroy. Your blog brought back memories of all the really BAD TV that I watched during those weeks of radiation treatment. It seemed like my brain was in a radiation fog and all I wanted (or could tolerate) was really, really (and I mean really!) embarassing TV ... things like Top 25 Fashion Do's and Don'ts (watch out for VPL ... visible panty line!), Top 25 Child Stars of the 70s (where are they now?!?), Top 50 Celebrity Meltdowns ... You get the picture ... Everytime I saw Michael Jackson's nose featured on one of these shows (and let's face it, it was on every show!), I would laugh. And back then, there wasn't a lot to laugh about, so if Michael Jackson's nose made me chuckle, great! So yes, that TV was absolutely awful but it somehow seemed to be all I could manage back then. PBS? No way. Discovery Channel? Nope, just couldn't wrap my brain around it. Although, I admit it was with a sigh of relief when a couple of months later I finally moved up a notch on the TV intellectual scale and began to consume more palatable fare like Gilmore Girls and Lost reruns.

And my advice on Lost is don't worry so much about trying to figure everything out. The show is not about that. It's about good acting, good writing, and lots and lots of little tiny details that connect in a myriad of spider webs. When you run into one of those webs, there's that little gasp of surprise and pleasure when you realize ... "Ohhhhhhhhh ... I see ......" So grab yourself some Lost DVD sets, Leroy, and enjoy. We're all there on the couch with you.

Sent by Peggy | 10:52 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Leroy: Loved the comment about Law & Order. I'm the same and even worse with CSI: Miami. No matter how many times we've seen it, we watch again, and again, and again. Glad Spike TV started carrying CSI and CSI New York. Some of the shows move back and forth between cities and I finally discovered "how they ended". Also rediscovered Crossing Jordon which is another form of CSI.

The sad part is DISH and DirectTV are no better than cable. Just a larger selection of reruns in HIgh Def.

Happy Watching
Nikki

Sent by Nikki | 11:00 AM ET | 01-31-2008

So good to hear you griping. TV does stink. Have you gotten into Prison Break? We love it. We watch the new Terminator series too, good SCIFI. I think Gladiators is about as low as you can go. I often wonder why we don't hear more about the writer's strike, what they are striking for and what the hold up is, do you know, does anyone know? My husband and I have been watching lots of movies that we bought. A couple real good ones are "A History of Violence", and "Die Hard, Live Free". Check them out Leroy. Good to hear you are sleeping well again. Have you found a comfortable chair yet.

Sent by Ruth White | 11:07 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Leroy,
Maybe books on tape for a change from TV.
I remember after my liver surgery the only thing on the tv at the hospital in the middle of the night was nw cable news boring...

Sent by Anita Mitchell stage iv survivor | 11:12 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Hi Leroy,
I agree, we should at least have decent tv!! I Love Friday Night Lights and watched the entire season in a few day on DVD. West Wing also has many great shows on DVD.
I also like to watch all the Academy Award best picture winners from the past. Sometimes a great old film seen again is better than most new films.

Take care and glad you are sleeping better!

Sent by cv | 11:15 AM ET | 01-31-2008

I Love Lucy reruns always help me smile.

Sent by Donna Rubinetti | 11:16 AM ET | 01-31-2008

One word: NetFlix! Shows that we didn't get to watch because we were busy chasing toddlers, keeping the TV off so kids could do homework in peace, etc. we're now watching through Netflix. We're finally catching up on Curb Your Enthusiasm! And, of course, you can see all the great movies you didn't have time to see when they first came out. And the Marx Brothers on Netflix can brighten any day.

Stay strong.

Sent by Mary | 11:17 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Leroy, about two years ago I was in the hospital and then had a period of recovery at home. I discovered during that time why Netflix and satellite radio were invented! Also, there's lots of great stuff (much of it from NPR) that can be downloaded onto your Ipod, too.

And, what about DVDs of all the various Monty Python (as a group and individuals) shows, specials and movies? Fawlty Towers is only 13 episodes, but I could watch those 13 shows over and over again.

As for Lost...it has always reminded me of Gilligan's Island on Prozac. I, for one, am not waiting for its return with antsy anticipation....I will be watching my DVD of the first season of "My Name is Earl" instead.

Glad to hear you're sleeping better...maybe television really is an effective sleep aid!

Sent by Joyce in FL | 11:20 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Leroy,

I feel like I should tell you to watch some of the great "educational" programming, but I know when I'm recovering from surgeries and stuff I don't have the energy or concentration to think that hard. But, I applaud you for not sinking down to the level of some of the so called "reality" TV.

To "deal" with the writer's strike and avoid watching things like Gladiators, my husband and I joined NetFlix! You can choose the movies you want from the comfort of your bed and not worry about standing at the video store or that someone brings you something stupid. Or, check out seasons of GOOD shows at the video store or library. Yes, stay away from the morbid stories, get some inspiration! But mostly, get REST!

Sent by Kelley | 11:51 AM ET | 01-31-2008

I vote for a rerun of Living with Cancer or maybe some new episodes. I loved that show.

Sent by Mike Race | 12:00 PM ET | 01-31-2008

I love Law & Order. When I used to travel and stay in a hotel, I was the one that didn't go out to dinner with the gang. I'd order in and watch episode afte episode of L & O. I was in heaven. Now when I can sleep, I listen to books on tape. Great escape.

Sent by Lisa | 12:13 PM ET | 01-31-2008

Amen brother. In 2005 I was hospitalized with a strep infection in my leg and was reduced to watiching the Nanny and the Golden Girls in the hospital. Then to make matters worse I had to spend a week in a nursing home without THAT to watch. this constitutes elder abuse. My sister works for the company managing the facility and while several aspects were complaint worthy the lack of quality TV was top on my list. I think of that now as we run out of quality TV. I too have thought of resorting to Lost but Law and Order should save me from that. Feel better. always in my prayers.

Sent by Dianna Austin | 12:17 PM ET | 01-31-2008

Dear Leroy,

I highly recommend NetFlix and order any and all of the British TV series that they have. That was my salvation when I was too sick to feel like reading. Of course, I don't see how anyone could ever get too much of Dr. Who, a British sci-fi. I've been watching it since I was 16 years old (I'm now 53) and it never disappoints. I've even got my now-16-year-old son watching it!

Continued well wishes,
Mo

Sent by Mo Spikes | 12:32 PM ET | 01-31-2008

Hi Leroy -

I've been NED for almost six years, so feel like an interloper in the blog, though I read you every day. You and the other contributors are such an inspiration. Happy to hear you're sleeping better; that's a big plus.

For diversion: might I suggest NPR? It's really addictive very varied. In fact, that's how I learned of your blog. Also, MSNBC & CNN's coverage of the candidates' race in both parties is really fascinating, as are the opinions of the (many) talking heads.

Sent by Ann Stern | 12:37 PM ET | 01-31-2008

Dear Leroy,
Those American Gladiators should take some lessons from you--they've got nothing on you! I agree with the general sentiment about tv--as my grandmother would say, "Trash, trash, trash". Glad you are sleeping well.

Sent by Lisa D | 12:50 PM ET | 01-31-2008

While I was undergoing inpatient IL--2 treatments for 2 weeks, my hospital room TV only picked up one local channel and The Discovery Channel. I watched endless episodes of the reality show about Alaskan fishermen called "The Deadliest Catch". My visitors were bored to tears, but I was happy realizing that the Bearing Sea in winter was even a less hospitible place than where I was! I recently splurged and bought the complete box set of The West Wing (all 7 seasons. I'm watching them end to end during the writers strike. Bartlett for President! Hang in there, man!

Sent by Rocco | 1:05 PM ET | 01-31-2008

Hi Leroy -

There are repeats of "Dead like Me" on Channel 20. The new series on HBO "In therapy" comes on at 9:30 OR you can watch it on line. Explore the internet! there's lots out there. Go to YOUTUBE for laughs.

Glad to hear you are doing better.

Sent by Dianne (DC) | 1:10 PM ET | 01-31-2008

My mistake, its "In Treatment"
http://www.hbo.com/intreatment/

and they are sponsoring the front page of npr.org!

Sent by Dianne (DC) | 1:12 PM ET | 01-31-2008

Hi, Leroy
Netflix and iTunes are your friends. Watch great documentaries and listen to audiobooks.
Keep your chin up, my friend.
Love,
Liz

Sent by Liz Cratty | 1:15 PM ET | 01-31-2008

No one mentioned "Without A Trace" on TNT. Very well made & keeps your interest. Also, "Psyche" on TNT is good for some laughs.

Sent by G. Sullivan | 1:21 PM ET | 01-31-2008

Leroy, Am so glad that you are sleeping! Would also recommend Netflix. To Pat A, I am sorry about the death of your friend, Jean. I lost a dear friend to cancer, as well. I will be thinking of you.

Sent by Jen | 2:06 PM ET | 01-31-2008

nice to hear the old fight back in your blog today. national public tv just ran a documentary on Dr Freeman aka the lobotomy dr. Facinating piece of film.
lv ya leroy

Sent by leah | 2:07 PM ET | 01-31-2008

Law and Order is one of my favorite shows.. you're right... i'll sit and watch it again..and the music.. 'da da'.. is genius.. gotta hand it to Dick Wolf.. Lost lost me after season 1.5.. midway through the second season... I couldn't concentrate.

Hope you're feeling better.

Sent by Krupali Tejura | 2:11 PM ET | 01-31-2008

Leroy --- A good nights sleep and here you are complaining about TV programs -- TERRIFIC NEWS..we know you ARE feeling better!!! I have been home for the past 3 months (surgery and all the rest of the trimmings..just completed radiation therapy) and have only watched the following channels: Discovery, The Learning Channel, The Travel Channel and Fox News. Now isn't that a wonderful combination. Very glad I never got into any of the series or soaps, just don't find TV as enjoyable as the "old days". I miss Sid Caesar, Lucy, Dinah Shore show -- all those wonderful variety shows. Dating myself, but always good singing, funny skits (most of the time) and you didn't feel it was a waste of time. Now there is way too much reality TV.. I live reality, want escapism. I start back to work Monday 1/2 days to start and my brain is ready, but not sure the body is. Think of you everyday Leroy, and hope and pray it is a good one for you...so glad you are better today :-)

Sent by Jo Ann Baswell | 2:33 PM ET | 01-31-2008

I completely agree about the dearth of good TV viewing. There is some weird stuff on TV in the middle of the night in my area. On one bad chemo night I got sucked into some kind of reality show that featured the morbidly obese including one man with horrific lymphadema. This was like a bad dream, but did distract me somewhat from the effects of chemo. Sleeping well is a gift to be savored. I agree that this is a couple of steps forward.

Sent by Susan | 2:59 PM ET | 01-31-2008

Leroy and Laurie,
I find myself wondering if today is really a better day for you or if you are just trying to sound like it? I hope you are resting better but I think back to all the times Leon told me not to worry, that he felt pretty good that day. Now I'm betting he was hurting more than he would admit to us.
To Laurie Hirth--I also have an empty house with the TV always on, cannot get interested in a book, and wonder if I will ever get used to being here without Leon. It has been nine months and I still have to remind myself that he is REALLY gone. I HATE cancer.

With thoughts and prayers, Jane

Sent by Jane in Arkansas | 3:01 PM ET | 01-31-2008

Sounds like you need TIVO!

Sent by ehertzfeld | 6:59 PM ET | 01-31-2008

Okay Leroy, it's time to discover "real" televison. You go to Netflix and start ordering great British shows like: MI-5,
Wire in the Blood, Hustle, Life on Mars,
and great American shows like: The Shield, Six Feet Under, Rescue Me..You can get lost for hours and even be entertained. Lost....for me....lost!

Sent by Cheryl Scott | 7:01 PM ET | 01-31-2008

I haven't seen any TV or DVDs/movies since last July, and frankly haven't missed them. I rely on radio to provide "background noise" for me now, and that's sufficient. I was never a big TV fan like Terry was, so cancelling cable didn't matter to me.

I still have a few DVDs from our collection of thousands (I sold most of them) but I'm in no hurry to watch them.

As far as I'm concerned, the TV can stay turned off.

Sent by Bruce | 8:17 PM ET | 01-31-2008

I was so sorry to hear you were in pain yesterday and I had no time to write. I HATE PAIN.

Watching The Tunnel, German movie about the horrible Berlin Wall and a man who helped people escape thru a tunnel he and others built. Better than tv, way way better. Totally engrossing and moving.

Hoping the pain recedes like a wave of the ocean as it returns and folds itself back into the sea.

Nancy

Sent by Nancy Oliveri | 9:49 PM ET | 01-31-2008

I've had mildly paranoid thoughts about the writers strike. Are they using it to headline new TV shows? Bring attention or focus to the election process? Has the world stopped to follow Leroy's journey? Perhaps. I've found myself checking in to see how you're doing & can't help but wonder if it's not part of some divine plan. Talk about a reality show...
I hope it brings you a measure more of that comfort you're seeking.

Sent by Maureen McEachen | 10:14 PM ET | 01-31-2008

During the day, it really is hard to find something to watch. But most of my patients will gravitate to Food Network (even with an NG tube and not able to eat), A&E (for their afternoon crime shows), and Discovery Channel. Animal Planet is also a popular one...
I love Netflix, but if you fall asleep watching it, it might take a while to get through a disc.
Then again, that wouldn't be too horrible. Glad that you're resting better.

Sent by Greta | 11:26 PM ET | 01-31-2008

Once again I would direct you to Turner Classic Movies. Watching those old gems all day got me through my chemo. One can escape into the 30's, 40's, or pick your own decade. They're wonderful!

Sent by Marilyn Trujillo | 12:06 AM ET | 02-01-2008

SPANDEX, ugh!!! better stay away from that show there is no sense in ruining good sleep with nightmares or worse yet an image that might keep you awake. Go for the NCIS or CSI's, they are always on. Celebrity Apprentice is actually not to bad, tho I hated to see Gene Simmons get fired. Glad to hear you are sleeping better!

Sent by Cheryl (Panama City Florida) | 1:32 AM ET | 02-01-2008

Thanks for the laugh. We all need to laugh. I too am trying to deal with the pain. I just wish my docs would let me know what is going on. The waiting is awful. In the mean time my husband finds funny movies for me.

Everybody keep laughing. Hugs, Betty

Sent by Betty | 3:59 AM ET | 02-01-2008

And I'm sorry, but those monsters in spandex on Gladiators just don't count.

That's hilarious! Always wondered how Reality TV got it's name. I've never seen a thing on any of those shows that seemed like reality to me. Even the "original reality show", Real Life on MTV - like reality is having a paid-for apartment in Manhatten with nothing but attractive strangers for roommates and TV cameras watching everything you do. Oh yeah, I remember that from my youth, don't you!
I can definitely relate to the Law & Order syndrome. I see it, say "OH, I've seen this one", then watch anyway.
Same with Star Trek for me, but I'm a sci-fi nut anyway.
Check out Discovery-Science channel, it's very good. And between Nat-Geo, History Channel, and Biography, if you have all those, there's almost always SOMETHING on that's actually intellectually stimulating.
Beast wishes from a husband of a stage 4 breast cancer fighter

Sent by TB in NC | 8:49 AM ET | 02-01-2008

Amen

Sent by Haley | 10:10 PM ET | 02-01-2008

One of the best movies to come out last year is out on DVD - "Stardust". It's kinda like "Princess Bride" with a happy ending. The hero overcomes many obstacles against great odds, wins the heart of his true love, and secures the kingdom. Best part of the movie? Robert DeNiro in drag. What a hoot! It's a sight to take your mind off just about anything. Glad you are sleeping better. Hang in there.

Sent by MH in Alabama | 12:21 AM ET | 02-03-2008

Leroy-

After receiving my bone marrow transplant I watched a lot of television. I couldn't really concentrate on a movie or my standard "geek tv" so I watched DVDs of CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM, ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT, WEEDS, THE OFFICE and just recently MY SO CALLED LIFE. I was hospitalized for fifty-some days so I really needed to laugh. TOP CHEF, and other cooking shows were like porn for me when I couldn't eat- I ordered a lot of cookbooks from Amazon. Also, you can't lose with SIX FEET UNDER- good macabre humour.

Pain sucks! Laughter can make things a little better.

Peace

Sent by Katherine Niall | 12:27 PM ET | 02-03-2008