A New Plan

The doctors are trying something new to help Mom overcome all the trouble she has been having with infections. Yesterday, the doctors removed Mom's IV port that was connected through her chest to her heart. This was a last resort but they are hopeful that by removing the port they can finally get the upper hand. Mom has a temporary port in her arm. The plan is to use this until Thursday or Friday and if all is well, the doctors will attempt to put another IV port in the other side of her heart. To prepare for the removal of the port, Mom received two units of platelets on Sunday and one before they removed the port yesterday. She also received a unit of red blood cells each day for the last three days. It seemed to have worked. She was able to have the port removed with minimal complications. When I talked with Mom yesterday afternoon she was "kind of happy" thanks to some Vicadan and she was delighted that all had gone well.

Mom is neutrapenic again so she has been moved back into a more isolated ward. She now in room 41 and can be reached at 650-498-3080. I know she would enjoy hearing from you if you have the opportunity to give her a call.

It is funny at times how one will amuse themselves when forced to find joy in uncomfortable situations. Mom has now named her portable IV infusion carrier "Mabel". She figured that since Mabel must go everywhere with her and Mom is attached to Mabel 24/7, she might as well look at her as a friend. She is also picking up on a few new hospital terminology tidbits. When a nurse came in looking for the "COW", all Mom could think was that the "COW" must be turned out with the bulls like they are at the ranch. Now Mom knows that in a hospital setting, a "COW" is the Computer On Wheels. You learn something new everyday.

Dad had a good time down at the ranch this past weekend. Mark had plans to be away so Dad returned to "hold down the fort". With Mom getting such wonderful care in the hospital, it was a perfect time for Dad to get away for a moment. All went well for both Mom and Dad while apart, although Mom was delighted to have Dad return.

Mom was doing good when I talked with her. She is her forever optimistic self and is finding joy and blessings in all she can. We will continue to pray that she can stay the course and her port can be reinserted. Thank you for your prayers. Many Blessings!