Leaving the Hospital

Mom is more than excited that she will be leaving the hospital tonight. She should be finished up with her IV of fungal medication in about two hours. Then she will take a shower, sign a few papers and off we'll go! It is hard to believe that she has been in the hospital for five days. Time just keeps moving forward.

Mom is feeling much better but still has many challenges to deal with...diabetic issues, iron overload issues, malnutrition issues, blood and platelet issues and the side effects of each of these conditions. (An interesting side effect of Mom's iron overload is that she would probably set off the metal detectors if she tried to pass through airport security. Can you imagine?! good thing she has no plans to fly any time soon.) Mom is now having to make changes to deal with these in a proactive way to help ease the symptoms. Mom needs to eat LOTS of protein and avoid sugar. Mom needs to do as much as possible to move and keep her muscles working. This means using the bathroom instead her potty chair, showering frequently, sleeping less in the day, sitting in a chair as much as possible (especially for meals), and trying to live as "normal" of a life as possible. This is not easy to do when moving around is tiring and food doesn't taste very good. Mom is going to have to choose daily to work to make a difference in her activity level remembering that "if you don't use it, you lose it." She will also have to choose to eat even if she doesn't want to or her malnutrition will have to be handled in a different way. I am confident that Mom can make these changes. After all, she has God on her side..."I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." ~Philippians 4:13

Dr. Zach Koontz is our new favorite "super hero" disguised as a doctor. Dr. Koontz has fabulous a bedside manner and is very perceptive. Not only has Dr. Koontz blessed Mom, he has been a blessing to Stasi and me as well. Dr. Koontz, we greatly appreciate you! Dr. Koontz has not been alone in his quest to care for Mom. He has been surrounded by the rest of the "super hero" team doctors here in ocology...all who a terrific at what they do to bless their patients.

Liz has also been a blessing during Mom's hospital stay. Today we discovered that not only does she save lives by day as a RN in oncology, she serves the general population at night by working at the Pottery Barn. This added a cape to her "super hero" costume in our eyes. Liz has been a source of delight, encouragement and inspiration. Thank you Liz! Oncology is staffed with the BEST nursing staff anywhere...the proof is in the care. May God bless each and every one of you!

Gerry has been Mom's nurse's aide today. Gerry is a "regular" here in oncology and we have been blessed by her care during many of Mom's hospital visits. She is sweet and always has a twinkle in her eye. To Gerry and ALL the nurse's aides who have faithfully, selflessly and kindly serve Mom, we say THANK YOU!

Mom will continue her daily visits to the Infusion Ward beginning tomorrow morning. Her appointment is a 9:30 AM. They will be checking all her levels to help keep her in balance and things moving forward in a positive direction. This will be a good thing.

We will soon be back at the apartment. Starting tomorrow, you can reach Mom at either of the numbers posted at the top of this page under the blog heading. Mom appreciates your prayers, encouragement and call. Thank you!