Mike, be comforted by the fact that your many cyber friends on Edmunds are praying for you and with God's grace you will recover from this...with God, everything is possible. Meanwhile, I would recommend getting a second opinion, especially about the treatment part, as new approaches and experimental drugs are developed continually accross the nation.
Not dissatisfied at all. Just thinking I should have bought the V8. Just a matter of time now.
Do you mean you are trading in the 2013 you just bought and are turning it around for a V8? I realize you aren't disatisfied, but you just know you will get a more pleasure from a more powerful engine. I get thet, my wife got a 335 (300 hp) and I got a 328(260 hp), thinkinghow much hp do you need? Big mistake, if you are spending $x to buy a car you might as well spend a little more and get exactly what you want....you may save money in the long run, and get more enjoyment from your car.
Mike.....can't add much to what everyone else has said, except it amazes me how quickly medicine is evolving. So, literally hope should always spring eternal.
I always enjoy your posts. You've been a true wealth of knowledge. You have taught me quite a bit about the inner workings of the car business (and I mistakenly thought I knew everything :P ).
Will continue to enjoy seeing your posts.
mako....a man after my own heart. If you don't like one car, why keep it? Glad you're looking to get what you really want.
I'm of the mind that you can never have enough HP. Too much is still not enough.
Mike, your news was not good, but many new treatments and discoveries are being made in the medical world. Anti-viral drugs and liver transplants are provding greater longevity and hope for patients in your condition. I realize that the current condition of your liver and the stage of Hepatitis C in your body are both facotors that have to be considered.
While advice is usually cheap and easy for others to give, I was thinking about your treatment options. I definitely would want a second or even third opinion from as good a source as I could find. Since you're on the East Coast, you might consider Emory in Atlanta, John Hopkins in Baltimore, and Duke in Durham. Even the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota would be excellent. I would have copies made of all of the tests and hop on a plane as soon as you feel able. Do your research on-line, get your mind right, and then act. I know that it sounds easier than the actual reality of life.
There has been a lot of research done on the effects of positive attitudes as they relate to overall health and patient recovery. Try to manage as sunny an out look as possible. You are on my prayer list. The nice thing about this site is that you have many posters who understand your problem and frustrations. Many of us have faced health problems in recent years. You have our support and encouragement. Keep us posted on your progress.
The plumber came this morning and carefully explained the movement of the clean out drain cap. Near the drain are two down spouts for that side of the house---one from the upper roof and one from the lower roof. These down spouts are connected to PVC pipes which lead underground to the clean out drain. With the heavy rains that we have experienced lately, the water caused undue pressure which removed the cap from the clean out drain. The pressure can neatly float the cap to a sitting position near the drain, or even turn the cap upside down as I experienced. Though he could tighten the cap and prevent removal, he suggested that it remain lightly screwed in place. With a lot of heavy rain water, we don't want the pressure to split the down spouts or direct the water to the wrong area of the patio or garden.
This plumber is also one of my former students---50 years old and been in his own business for 20 years. Before that, he worked for a master plumber that we used for many years until he passed away. As I told Billy this morning, "My students are saving my life this week." While here he also adjusted a bathroom faucet.
I knew that there had to be a logical reason for what was happening. It's nice to know that my mind isn't completely gone. As a friend told me, "The fire may be out, but there is still smoke in the chimney."
Makola, I was just wondering about something. When you traded a 2013 for another 2013, did you take a very large loss on your oiginal purchase? You may have explained that and I missed the post.
Mike, has anyone said anything about a liver transplant?
Not yet. My liver enzymes and liver function tests show high normal so far. They did say that if the liver begins to fail, then it would be an option. Cancer of the liver is what they seem most concerned about.
I had another CT scan this morning and will know more tomorrow afternoon. The problems I am having now are with the immune system not protecting me from viruses and other ailments such as muscle spasms and fatigue.
Glad to hear you are doing much better. I can tell from your posts you are feeling more "chipper!"
>With the heavy rains that we have experienced lately, the water caused undue pressure which removed the cap from the clean out drain.
I recall suggesting it was internal pressure from air or water from the plumbing putting upward pressure on the cap. At least I was partly right.
Does this line have household waste water going through it or is it only storm drain? If storm drainage, does it go to the curb or a separate storm drain system, or is the storm draining going into the household waste sewage system? I thought the latter was illegal now in the US.
Mike, I just read of your discouraing report; I knowhow it can lead to a feeling of futility, but let me encourage you to maintain a good attitude. DO NOT throw in the towel; you have a lot of friends pulling and praying for you and a positive attitude on your part is an invaluable help to your condition. NEVER GIVE UP!!!
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
As to being beyond wanting to show off a hot car, I don't think I'll ever grow out of that. I want to be the guy that the kids all shake their heads at as I drive by and say "what's that old guy doing in THAT car?"
Me too; just yesterday I had the perfect opportunity to shut down a 2004 Mustang GT with my Mazdaspeed; unfortunately my wife was in the car... Ever since I was 16 people have been telling me I'll outgrow fast cars and "those little foreign cars" but 39 years later I'm still messing with them. I will say that a car has to have more than horsepower to keep my interest. My 1995 318ti has only 150 hp but it is still a blast to drive. That car forces you to drive smoothly and conserve momentum while the in the Mazdaspeed you simply" light fuse, place on ground, get away!" Both cars are fun, but in radically different ways.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I second that - it would be well worth the effort.
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name. 2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h) Review your vehicle
The plumber came this morning and carefully explained
*richard, have you ever thought of investing in one of the bridges I own in New York City? I can sell you one very cheap, especially the one that connects Brooklyn to Manhattan!
All kidding aside, I never thought pressure could do that to a cap on a trap pipe. When you buy my bridge, you can also have the plumber install a pressure valve to release the pressure build-up!
Glad everything worked out for you and that no one was testing your resolve.
"...I never thought pressure could do that to a cap..."
Never underestimate the power of water. Besides, the cap was never put on tightly---by design. This house has two very large roofs. The main roof covers 4,300 sq. ft. plus a two car garage and dumps a goodly amount of water onto the lower roof which covers a kitchen, a library, a family room, and a guest suite. In heavy rain, a great deal of water rushes through those down spouts. The cap would not normally move, rain or shine. The past week has seen a heavy rain storm each day.
Yes, I remember that you were right about it being some form of pressure. To answer your questions: (1) It is a storm drain and is not related to household waste water. (2) The storm drain passes under the brick patio and brick garden paths out to the curb. It does not go into the household waste sewage system. (3) You are correct in stating that it would be illegal to do so. When we opened up the lawn to replace the sewage line to the street, we also decided to install a new water line and a separate drain line at the same time. We felt that it would save us more trouble down the line (pun intended). All of this was carefully planned because the gas company and the city had to be on hand with their engineers to make sure that nothing crossed or disabled their lines. The gas lines were very close to where our new lines were installed. Gratefully, the city installed the clean outs at no additional charge. My cost was to have been $1,800 but, with the additional lines, the final price was $2,300. It was well worth the added $500.
The process produced an unexpected benefit. While the gas company was there, their engineer noticed that the flame on our gas lantern at the end of the front walk had gone out. He offered to re-light it for me. While doing so, he mentioned that the gas company would be happy to maintain the lantern post for us at no additional charge. He said, "Let's put in some new glass panes and repaint the lantern and post for you." I nearly fell over with happiness. He went on to say that the gas company would maintain the lantern on an annual basis with new glass panes and a paint job each year. That is what I call service with a capital "S". My wife was especially thrilled because she loves that gas lantern at night.
I'm just concerned that the storm drain line isn't large enough to hande the flow that goes into it without being able to vent through a cleanout plug. Needs a larger diameter pipe out to the storm drain in the street. But it sounds like you had lots of people involved in repairing it.
I like the service attitude of the gas company. I understand the aura of the gaslight at night. There used to be a section of Cincinnati with gaslights near the campus. I don't know if they are still used or not.
So sorry to hear of the news, but as with everyone else I am pulling for you. Also, as with everyone else, I would suggest you get a second opinion and would throw the Cleveland Clinic into the mix of healthcare centers to consider for it.
Keep your head up and stay positive, which I know is difficult to do.
Praying for you over here in Pittsburgh.
28FF
2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn, 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xE
MIke, On the radio I was listening and they are reporting people in the U.S. have a disease which hasn't been reported before. I think the symptoms are very similar to what you have stated your symptoms are. I have linked a CBS News article here, just read it over and see if that is helpful;
No, that's not what I have. I have had over 30 blood tests, a liver biopsy, 3 CT Scans, viral load liver tests, etc. there is no doubt, according to the team of doctors consulting with my family doctor that I am suffering from the latter stages of Hepatitis C. They figure I've had the disease since 1980 when I had a blood transfusion. That is the only way I could have contracted this disease.
The viral count confirms the disease. I can't take the interferon bolster which is the only known viral reduction treatment because of two things - I can't tolerate the side effects and my viral count does not reduce sufficiently to warrant a continuation of the treatment.
From my discussions with every doctor and all the research I have done thus far, there are over 5,000,000 people on the US suffering from this disease. You can only contract the disease by contaminated blood entering the body in the form of sharing needles (drug addicts), blood transfusions prior to 1990 (when they began testing blood for HEP C, or by sexual relations with someone who had HEP C. The only one above that I have participated in was the transfusion (my deceased wife did not have HEP C and I have not had unprotected sexual relations with anyone subsequent to her death.
I do appreciate all your concerns, believe me I really do.
The gastroenterologist has contacted Cleveland Clinic down here in Weston, FL, and I am on their list already should any thing new develop.
Until then, I must try to keep from getting any viral infections and of course, no alcolohic drinks, which I don't do anyway. What has complicated this is my diabetes, which only makes this disease react on my body even worse.
Thanks again, everyone for your prayers and concerns - it really helps me get through these initial periods of depression - at least until I have learned to live with this.
The only one above that I have participated in was the transfusion
It is so unfortunate that you got this disease because of what should have been a fairly routine procedure. Modern medecine is incredible, but sometimes it works against us. My mother died in February and she was 94, and although she lived a pretty good life free of any of the major diseases, I doubt if she would have lived past 80 without modern medecines and medical procedures.
I also wanted to say, as someone else mentioned, I really enjoy reading your posts, you have really added a lot of good information and you have brought a lot of your experience and knowledge to the site.
I don't know why dealers can't have the final buying procedure all organized so you can be finished in about 40 minutes. The signing of the papers should take about 20 minutes and the going over the new car should take 20 to 30 minutes depending on how much you already know.
But, oh no, the receptionist is on lunch so we have to wait for photocopies. They wait too long and the guy who changes the license plates over goes on lunch.
Our salesman has to look for envelopes. Our original salesman (who was as excellent as a salesman can be) left to look after his parents, and the new guy has been there for 2 months and although nice enough just doesn't know the answers to a lot of questions (time between oil changes, can he set homelink from the remote, etc).
The car is wonderful. A few differences from the BMW. Yesterday, I looked up a few articles comparing a BMW 328, A4, and Mercedes C250. Some liked the Audi the most and some the BMW, none chose the MB, though they all said it had good points - summary, it is the most solid, especially the doors, just doesn't have as much fun appeal as a car in this segment should have. Audi usually wins for interior, suspension, uniqueness, and BMW for power, sophistication in driving dynamics, such as cornering, and for power.
My wife likes it so far, though has to get used to the lighter steering and a few things that just operate differently.
I like it better because it feels more solid, it is more sophisticated (more like a baby 535) in the way it drives and handles, controls and driving position are better. Though her 335 had 300 hp and this one has 220, I love the way a 4 cylinder turbo can really move when you want it to.
Mike - sorry to hear of the diagnosis. There has recently been big news here in the Boston area regarding a Hep C outbreak. Seems a lab tech was injecting himself with patient drugs and refilling the syringes with water and putting them back. He has Hep C. He's worked at hospitals in 7 states - you may want to google it. I'm sure your doc is aware of it but worth a shot.
Here in Boston are two of the best liver teams in the country. I'm amazed what they can do especially the trickle down transplants. They'll take a healthy liver and transplant it into a young patient who isn't yet that sick. They then take that young liver and transplant it into someone older who doesn't have a long life expectancy. That can extend that older person's life for a few more years while giving the younger patient a much longer life expectancy.
As to being beyond wanting to show off a hot car, I don't think I'll ever grow out of that. I want to be the guy that the kids all shake their heads at as I drive by and say "what's that old guy doing in THAT car?"
I guess I don’t really belong on this car forum like some of you guys. Don’t get me wrong, I like cars and horsepower. That’s why I bought a V8 for myself and a V6 for Mrs. j, for the times when I drive her car, but I’d much rather be able to throw a 25 yard out and not make the receiver have to dive to make the catch. If I could make a deal with the man above, I’d pay a $10K ADM, no questions asked, to be able to still do that.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
driver....big congrats. They're very nice cars. That turbo 4 really does make some nice torque.
Lots of tech, and like all the manufacturers, Audi does theirs just a little bit different than the rest of the competition. MMI is really quite good. You just have to spend about a week or two getting familiar with it, then it becomes 2nd nature what Audi does.
You're also right, they are built extremely well....very solid.
I agree with you...regardless of the circumstances, there is no real reason why the paperwork and the car can't be prepped and ready to go if you make an appointment in advance.
Personally, I'd "ding" them for the confusion and lack of preparedness on their survey.
You must be one heck of a wheeler dealer or you have a dealership with a heart of gold. I forget what you said you paid for the V-6 but using the rule of a 20% loss of value, the minute you roll over the curb you would lose $6,000 on a $30k car.
You have to tell us how you did that. I'll throw out Jipster's book and buy yours.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Mike - the best advice I'm hearing here is to get in touch with the top liver programs. Cleavland Clinic, the ones robr2 is talking about in Boston. They can be way ahead of your local hospital.
I tried telling this to a friend with a fairly aggressive prostate cancer to no avail. He only made it to 70 and I'm convinced he would still be around if he'd gone at treatment more seriously.
That's how I ended up with Sloan Kettering. My local doctor had a routine going that would have ultimately let this thing slip into a nasty, fatal leukemia. This has been a rough go but I'm looking at a lot of years ahead (hope I'm right!).
2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
Mike - the best advice I'm hearing here is to get in touch with the top liver programs. Cleavland Clinic, the ones robr2 is talking about in Boston. They can be way ahead of your local hospital.
I agree; I have a friend who found out he had Carcenoid Cancer. His family doctor sent him to a specialist who told my friend he had three years to live- sorry about your luck, in essence. My friend did some research and found an oncologist at Johns Hopkins who operated on him and five years later my friend is still cancer free. If he had listened to the first "expert" he would be dead now.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
"...I'm convinced he would still be around if he'd gone at treatment more seriously."
I'm not so sure. I heard on the radio about a recent study that showed Prostate cancer patients who had aggressive treatment didn't enjoy any more longevity than those who declined treatment. I suppose that it depends on individual conditions and other health factors. As my urologist told me, you reach a certain age where treatment would be rather futile in terms of seeking a longer life. He said that in most cases, Prostate cancer is a slow progression compared to other cancers. At some point around the ages of the late 70's or early 80's, you're asking for a lot of suffering considering the amount of time that you have left. There are three types of treatment; none of them guranteed. It's definitely a soul searching individual decision. The quality of life must also be considered.
Glad to hear that your recovery is going so well. Did the fund raising efforts cover the extra expenses beyond the insurance? We never heard.
"Personally, I'd ding them for the confusion and lack of preparedness on their survey."
So would I. When you pay that much for an automobile, you should expect impeccable service at all levels. In fact, regardless of the price of the car (new or used), good service should be the calling card of any dealership.
Personally, I'd "ding" them for the confusion and lack of preparedness on their survey
Thanks for the congrats. I am glad we went with the A4, it has some unique characteristics which I like, and the interior is beautiful and comfortable too.
Our original salesman was the best I have ever had by a wide margin. I don't know if I would have switched to Audi if it wasn't for him, so I want him to get a good report. He left only because his parents are having problems and he wants to take care of them. I thought he was about 19 years old but he has a Masters in English Literature....whewww! I guess he is older than he seems, and he is the used car manager-Richard probably taught him too! Everything he did was honest and above board with no pressure. I could have taken a week to think it over, but, we wanted him to get the commission before he left.
The new guy is OK but nothing special. If I can separate them I will. Basically, the new guy is just adequate, the first was "the best".
My friend did everything wrong in my book from the first tests forward. While he did go to doctors he also used alternative medicine. His first reaction to a high PSA number was to take the advice of one of the alternative guys and did treatment to bring down the PSA number which did work. It, of course, did not bring the cancer that was causing those high PSA numbers. By the time they got to that it had spread. At that point there was nothing they could do. He was in Deland, FL. I don't think that's where you get the most aggressive treatment.
driver - congrats on the Audi. I'll gladly take that instead of the Passat....
2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
Darn, it took them long enough to find what it was. I am very sorry to hear this news, and I would definitely try to see a hep C specialist.
A few weeks ago there was a report on the nat'l news that said as many as 30% of baby boomers could have hep C and not know it. They urged everyone 65 and older to get tested for it. Most of us older folks have had surgery for something at one time or another.
Your doctors' prognosis was so dour sounding, it makes me wonder why anyone should even be tested if there is no cure. That is one reason why I would get a second opinion. A little hope goes a long ways.
I have been dealing with type II diabetes for about 10 years now and there is no cure for that either, but it can be controlled with proper diet and medication. My lifestyle really hasn't changed at all in that 10 years
I guess what I am trying to say is that you should not give up hope. Just find the right doc, get the right meds, take care of yourself and you could still be here telling us sales stories for another 25 or 30 years !!
driver - congrats on the Audi. I'll gladly take that instead of the Passat....
We will make a note that you would also be interested in taking over the Audi should something happen to us.
My wife had a good friend who had a lump in her stomach. She would only go to a naturalpath doctor and she died after a short time. My wife follows medical publications and is very knowledgeable about medical issues, and she strongly believes this woman would have had a chance if she had gone to a real doctor.
It's always amazed me (in a good way) how you can "know" somebody w/o meeting them. I'm glad you came into our little group here and look forward to having you around for a long time.
Comments
Mike, be comforted by the fact that your many cyber friends on Edmunds are praying for you and with God's grace you will recover from this...with God, everything is possible. Meanwhile, I would recommend getting a second opinion, especially about the treatment part, as new approaches and experimental drugs are developed continually accross the nation.
Be of good cheer and stay strong my brother.
Good to hear about your positive progress. We'll know you are all better when you start leaving hints about someone's car you would like to inherit.
Mako seems to be a little disatisfied these days.........
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Did you get up on the wrong side of the bed yesterday?
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Not dissatisfied at all. Just thinking I should have bought the V8.
Just a matter of time now. Already signed the papers. Waiting for
the striping guys to get done. White GT looked too plain. Dealer
said he'd take care of that for me.
2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali
Do you mean you are trading in the 2013 you just bought and are turning it around for a V8?
I realize you aren't disatisfied, but you just know you will get a more pleasure from a more powerful engine. I get thet, my wife got a 335 (300 hp) and I got a 328(260 hp), thinkinghow much hp do you need? Big mistake, if you are spending $x to buy a car you might as well spend a little more and get exactly what you want....you may save money in the long run, and get more enjoyment from your car.
So, what was the deal?
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I'm a bit more myself now. Mako's 6 cyl would be fine.....
When' my Passat coming?
Trading Red V6 for White V8. Both 2013s. White one was plain looking.
Dealer is going to give it some accent stripes because I asked him to.
I'll have it today or tomorrow. Going from 307HP to 420HP.
2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali
I always enjoy your posts. You've been a true wealth of knowledge. You have taught me quite a bit about the inner workings of the car business (and I mistakenly thought I knew everything :P ).
Will continue to enjoy seeing your posts.
mako....a man after my own heart. If you don't like one car, why keep it? Glad you're looking to get what you really want.
I'm of the mind that you can never have enough HP. Too much is still not enough.
While advice is usually cheap and easy for others to give, I was thinking about your treatment options. I definitely would want a second or even third opinion from as good a source as I could find. Since you're on the East Coast, you might consider Emory in Atlanta, John Hopkins in Baltimore, and Duke in Durham. Even the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota would be excellent. I would have copies made of all of the tests and hop on a plane as soon as you feel able. Do your research on-line, get your mind right, and then act. I know that it sounds easier than the actual reality of life.
There has been a lot of research done on the effects of positive attitudes as they relate to overall health and patient recovery. Try to manage as sunny an out look as possible. You are on my prayer list. The nice thing about this site is that you have many posters who understand your problem and frustrations. Many of us have faced health problems in recent years. You have our support and encouragement. Keep us posted on your progress.
Richard
My hero! :shades:
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Reminds me of a vanity plate on a CTS or STS looking very sporty that I saw on the interstate yesterday, driven by a lady.
The plate said, "It does."
I had to think a while to decide what it meant was a response to the CTS advertising that when you turn your car on it should turn YOU ON. Hers does!
So trade a car for something that does turn you on.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
This plumber is also one of my former students---50 years old and been in his own business for 20 years. Before that, he worked for a master plumber that we used for many years until he passed away. As I told Billy this morning, "My students are saving my life this week." While here he also adjusted a bathroom faucet.
I knew that there had to be a logical reason for what was happening. It's nice to know that my mind isn't completely gone. As a friend told me, "The fire may be out, but there is still smoke in the chimney."
Richard
Richard
Passat was ordered last week. We fly to Florida Nov 4 and will pick it up on Monday the 5th.
Audi is ready this afternoon...my wife is pretty excited. We meet with a tech guy to see how it works.
I guess you should add that to your list.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
This year, in addition to me not flying, my wife has used up all her paid time off taking care of me so a week off isn't in the cards.
Mike - the Mayo Clinic has a big hospital in Jacksonville as well. Has anyone said anything about a liver transplant?
Not yet. My liver enzymes and liver function tests show high normal so far. They did say that if the liver begins to fail, then it would be an option. Cancer of the liver is what they seem most concerned about.
I had another CT scan this morning and will know more tomorrow afternoon. The problems I am having now are with the immune system not protecting me from viruses and other ailments such as muscle spasms and fatigue.
Glad to hear you are doing much better. I can tell from your posts you are feeling more "chipper!"
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
ordered the V6 would have cost about $8k more. Buying and trading cost
me $10k more. So $2k more to own and drive 2 cars, both of which I like.
2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali
I recall suggesting it was internal pressure from air or water from the plumbing putting upward pressure on the cap. At least I was partly right.
Does this line have household waste water going through it or is it only storm drain? If storm drainage, does it go to the curb or a separate storm drain system, or is the storm draining going into the household waste sewage system? I thought the latter was illegal now in the US.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Me too; just yesterday I had the perfect opportunity to shut down a 2004 Mustang GT with my Mazdaspeed; unfortunately my wife was in the car...
Ever since I was 16 people have been telling me I'll outgrow fast cars and "those little foreign cars" but 39 years later I'm still messing with them.
I will say that a car has to have more than horsepower to keep my interest. My 1995 318ti has only 150 hp but it is still a blast to drive. That car forces you to drive smoothly and conserve momentum while the in the Mazdaspeed you simply" light fuse, place on ground, get away!"
Both cars are fun, but in radically different ways.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
If any diagnosis deserves a second opinion, it's that one.
Best of luck.
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR
Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name.
2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h)
Review your vehicle
*richard, have you ever thought of investing in one of the bridges I own in New York City? I can sell you one very cheap, especially the one that connects Brooklyn to Manhattan!
All kidding aside, I never thought pressure could do that to a cap on a trap pipe. When you buy my bridge, you can also have the plumber install a pressure valve to release the pressure build-up!
Glad everything worked out for you and that no one was testing your resolve.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Never underestimate the power of water. Besides, the cap was never put on tightly---by design. This house has two very large roofs. The main roof covers 4,300 sq. ft. plus a two car garage and dumps a goodly amount of water onto the lower roof which covers a kitchen, a library, a family room, and a guest suite. In heavy rain, a great deal of water rushes through those down spouts. The cap would not normally move, rain or shine. The past week has seen a heavy rain storm each day.
Richard
Richard
The process produced an unexpected benefit. While the gas company was there, their engineer noticed that the flame on our gas lantern at the end of the front walk had gone out. He offered to re-light it for me. While doing so, he mentioned that the gas company would be happy to maintain the lantern post for us at no additional charge. He said, "Let's put in some new glass panes and repaint the lantern and post for you." I nearly fell over with happiness. He went on to say that the gas company would maintain the lantern on an annual basis with new glass panes and a paint job each year. That is what I call service with a capital "S". My wife was especially thrilled because she loves that gas lantern at night.
Richard
I like the service attitude of the gas company. I understand the aura of the gaslight at night. There used to be a section of Cincinnati with gaslights near the campus. I don't know if they are still used or not.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Still in use!
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Edmunds Moderator
So sorry to hear of the news, but as with everyone else I am pulling for you. Also, as with everyone else, I would suggest you get a second opinion and would throw the Cleveland Clinic into the mix of healthcare centers to consider for it.
Keep your head up and stay positive, which I know is difficult to do.
Praying for you over here in Pittsburgh.
28FF
Mysterious
And this article;
BOSTON (AP) - Researchers have identified a mysterious new disease that has left scores of people in Asia and some in the United States with AIDS-like symptoms even though they are not infected with HIV
It might mean something and might not. I just wanted to put it out there so you could look into it.
Best,
Driver
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
No, that's not what I have. I have had over 30 blood tests, a liver biopsy, 3 CT Scans, viral load liver tests, etc. there is no doubt, according to the team of doctors consulting with my family doctor that I am suffering from the latter stages of Hepatitis C. They figure I've had the disease since 1980 when I had a blood transfusion. That is the only way I could have contracted this disease.
The viral count confirms the disease. I can't take the interferon bolster which is the only known viral reduction treatment because of two things - I can't tolerate the side effects and my viral count does not reduce sufficiently to warrant a continuation of the treatment.
From my discussions with every doctor and all the research I have done thus far, there are over 5,000,000 people on the US suffering from this disease. You can only contract the disease by contaminated blood entering the body in the form of sharing needles (drug addicts), blood transfusions prior to 1990 (when they began testing blood for HEP C, or by sexual relations with someone who had HEP C. The only one above that I have participated in was the transfusion (my deceased wife did not have HEP C and I have not had unprotected sexual relations with anyone subsequent to her death.
I do appreciate all your concerns, believe me I really do.
The gastroenterologist has contacted Cleveland Clinic down here in Weston, FL, and I am on their list already should any thing new develop.
Until then, I must try to keep from getting any viral infections and of course, no alcolohic drinks, which I don't do anyway. What has complicated this is my diabetes, which only makes this disease react on my body even worse.
Thanks again, everyone for your prayers and concerns - it really helps me get through these initial periods of depression - at least until I have learned to live with this.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
It is so unfortunate that you got this disease because of what should have been a fairly routine procedure. Modern medecine is incredible, but sometimes it works against us. My mother died in February and she was 94, and although she lived a pretty good life free of any of the major diseases, I doubt if she would have lived past 80 without modern medecines and medical procedures.
I also wanted to say, as someone else mentioned, I really enjoy reading your posts, you have really added a lot of good information and you have brought a lot of your experience and knowledge to the site.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
But, oh no, the receptionist is on lunch so we have to wait for photocopies. They wait too long and the guy who changes the license plates over goes on lunch.
Our salesman has to look for envelopes. Our original salesman (who was as excellent as a salesman can be) left to look after his parents, and the new guy has been there for 2 months and although nice enough just doesn't know the answers to a lot of questions (time between oil changes, can he set homelink from the remote, etc).
The car is wonderful. A few differences from the BMW. Yesterday, I looked up a few articles comparing a BMW 328, A4, and Mercedes C250. Some liked the Audi the most and some the BMW, none chose the MB, though they all said it had good points - summary, it is the most solid, especially the doors, just doesn't have as much fun appeal as a car in this segment should have. Audi usually wins for interior, suspension, uniqueness, and BMW for power, sophistication in driving dynamics, such as cornering, and for power.
My wife likes it so far, though has to get used to the lighter steering and a few things that just operate differently.
I like it better because it feels more solid, it is more sophisticated (more like a baby 535) in the way it drives and handles, controls and driving position are better. Though her 335 had 300 hp and this one has 220, I love the way a 4 cylinder turbo can really move when you want it to.
So far, so good!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Here in Boston are two of the best liver teams in the country. I'm amazed what they can do especially the trickle down transplants. They'll take a healthy liver and transplant it into a young patient who isn't yet that sick. They then take that young liver and transplant it into someone older who doesn't have a long life expectancy. That can extend that older person's life for a few more years while giving the younger patient a much longer life expectancy.
I guess I don’t really belong on this car forum like some of you guys. Don’t get me wrong, I like cars and horsepower. That’s why I bought a V8 for myself and a V6 for Mrs. j, for the times when I drive her car, but I’d much rather be able to throw a 25 yard out and not make the receiver have to dive to make the catch. If I could make a deal with the man above, I’d pay a $10K ADM, no questions asked, to be able to still do that.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Lots of tech, and like all the manufacturers, Audi does theirs just a little bit different than the rest of the competition. MMI is really quite good. You just have to spend about a week or two getting familiar with it, then it becomes 2nd nature what Audi does.
You're also right, they are built extremely well....very solid.
I agree with you...regardless of the circumstances, there is no real reason why the paperwork and the car can't be prepped and ready to go if you make an appointment in advance.
Personally, I'd "ding" them for the confusion and lack of preparedness on their survey.
You must be one heck of a wheeler dealer or you have a dealership with a heart of gold. I forget what you said you paid for the V-6 but using the rule of a 20% loss of value, the minute you roll over the curb you would lose $6,000 on a $30k car.
You have to tell us how you did that. I'll throw out Jipster's book and buy yours.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I tried telling this to a friend with a fairly aggressive prostate cancer to no avail. He only made it to 70 and I'm convinced he would still be around if he'd gone at treatment more seriously.
That's how I ended up with Sloan Kettering. My local doctor had a routine going that would have ultimately let this thing slip into a nasty, fatal leukemia. This has been a rough go but I'm looking at a lot of years ahead (hope I'm right!).
I agree; I have a friend who found out he had Carcenoid Cancer. His family doctor sent him to a specialist who told my friend he had three years to live- sorry about your luck, in essence. My friend did some research and found an oncologist at Johns Hopkins who operated on him and five years later my friend is still cancer free. If he had listened to the first "expert" he would be dead now.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
I'm not so sure. I heard on the radio about a recent study that showed Prostate cancer patients who had aggressive treatment didn't enjoy any more longevity than those who declined treatment. I suppose that it depends on individual conditions and other health factors. As my urologist told me, you reach a certain age where treatment would be rather futile in terms of seeking a longer life. He said that in most cases, Prostate cancer is a slow progression compared to other cancers. At some point around the ages of the late 70's or early 80's, you're asking for a lot of suffering considering the amount of time that you have left. There are three types of treatment; none of them guranteed. It's definitely a soul searching individual decision. The quality of life must also be considered.
Glad to hear that your recovery is going so well. Did the fund raising efforts cover the extra expenses beyond the insurance? We never heard.
Richard
So would I. When you pay that much for an automobile, you should expect impeccable service at all levels. In fact, regardless of the price of the car (new or used), good service should be the calling card of any dealership.
Richard
Thanks for the congrats. I am glad we went with the A4, it has some unique characteristics which I like, and the interior is beautiful and comfortable too.
Our original salesman was the best I have ever had by a wide margin. I don't know if I would have switched to Audi if it wasn't for him, so I want him to get a good report. He left only because his parents are having problems and he wants to take care of them. I thought he was about 19 years old but he has a Masters in English Literature....whewww! I guess he is older than he seems, and he is the used car manager-Richard probably taught him too! Everything he did was honest and above board with no pressure. I could have taken a week to think it over, but, we wanted him to get the commission before he left.
The new guy is OK but nothing special. If I can separate them I will. Basically, the new guy is just adequate, the first was "the best".
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Toda, that is very kind and much appreciated.
I am really trying to buy enough cars so I can retain my membership.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
driver - congrats on the Audi. I'll gladly take that instead of the Passat....
A few weeks ago there was a report on the nat'l news that said as many as 30% of baby boomers could have hep C and not know it. They urged everyone 65 and older to get tested for it. Most of us older folks have had surgery for something at one time or another.
Your doctors' prognosis was so dour sounding, it makes me wonder why anyone should even be tested if there is no cure. That is one reason why I would get a second opinion. A little hope goes a long ways.
I have been dealing with type II diabetes for about 10 years now and there is no cure for that either, but it can be controlled with proper diet and medication. My lifestyle really hasn't changed at all in that 10 years
I guess what I am trying to say is that you should not give up hope. Just find the right doc, get the right meds, take care of yourself and you could still be here telling us sales stories for another 25 or 30 years !!
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
We will make a note that you would also be interested in taking over the Audi should something happen to us.
My wife had a good friend who had a lump in her stomach. She would only go to a naturalpath doctor and she died after a short time. My wife follows medical publications and is very knowledgeable about medical issues, and she strongly believes this woman would have had a chance if she had gone to a real doctor.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
It's always amazed me (in a good way) how you can "know" somebody w/o meeting them. I'm glad you came into our little group here and look forward to having you around for a long time.