***UPDATE*** new room, #145***
5:00pm Good news. The oncologist just came in. They had done a chest xray this morning because of the shortness of breath, and it came back clear. She'll get a steroid to help relieve that symptom. She's almost reached the blood level (coagulopothy) the doctor has been working her toward, so initially, he'll start her on a non-chemo type treatment in the next couple of days.
2:30pm ish Well, it's mid afternoon and the oncologist hasn't come yet. The hospitalist did come to give blood results. Her hemoglobin is better again today, and they temporarily took her off the fluid drip so the water pill will relieve some swelling. Therefore, the IV pole, who is named Lancelot today, sits lonely as a wallflower by the door. (Continue texting me with name ideas.) She's also experiencing a little shortness of breath from time to time.
She is setting up a daily routine which includes making her bed, quiet time, reading, and walking. The outside courtyard by her room has been reopened, so she plans to sit out there in the mornings with her coffee. She feels really well right now, and her spirits are up, thanks in part to all of you. Lewis is with her everyday, most of the day.
Donna and Parker visited last evening and brought her a huge basket of goodies including snacks, Dublin DP, a roller massager, a popper (which she used for quite a while and learned how addictive they are), games, and several other things. Even the basket itself is pretty great. But them being here was the best thing. Kurt was able to stop by on his way out of town for the week. Matt came with dinner after work, and tried to entertain with his five or six jokes. You know them.
Today, Bob, Donna, and Diane visited for a while. It was fun to sit in the family room and talk about all sorts of things. Somehow, we got to telling stories about wild animals in and around our houses. Squirrels and raccoons in chimneys, rats eating fruit on the kitchen island, possums in the backyard, and mice everywhere; using vacuums to get them out of pipes, etc. You probably have some stories of your own running through your mind right now. Share them in the comments or text them to mom!
Mom super appreciates everyone's love and prayers. (so do we) Please continue.
Donna N. Suggested IVPole name: Slim Jim
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DeleteRemember when that bird flew into the Williams’ house that one time? Also that lizard that I found in my bed a couple weeks ago. Ew. So glad about the new room! Love you guys. -Emily
ReplyDeletePaula S. Hey Charlotte. I'm so glad you have a courtyard. That is good for the body and soul!! Slim Jim is a cute name.
ReplyDeleteFrom Carol: I sent Cindy just about all the wild animal stories I could remember--there were pictures so I just texted instead. Jen had a cat who was definitely fascinated with gently bringing in live anything(s) and letting them run around in the house until she recaptured and released them. She may have some good stories to tell. I love Lewis's squirrel story and having to use a vacuum to get it out. Of course he would think of that! It's genius!
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