So far, this transplant has definitely been easier in some ways, and definitely harder in some ways. I will explain.
Worse because...
-Worst reaction to new chemo; very painful, but blissfully short-lived
-Serious throat pain, ongoing
-Less ability to eat and drink
-Digestive system misery
Better because...
-We are able to stay in Heber!
-His red counts have been stable, no blood needed. Wow!
-More energy on some days
-Did I mention we were able to stay in Heber?
-Less worry about the kids
-Blood pressure more stable, less likely to pass out
-Known quantity
His counts should start to rise anywhere between now and Friday. He plans to be well enough to attend a Thanksgiving dinner at his sister's house. We'll still have to cook a little differently for him, but he can have mashed potatoes and gravy, cranberry, and Stove-Top stuffing. His Dad is getting him a small turkey roast, because they have warned us off a full bird and stuffing cooked inside one. He'll have to have extra pie and of course, ICE CREAM to console himself. No egg nog.
For me, I am grateful for a listening ear, or steam valve, in the person of Geri at Huntsman. There have been a few times when things were a little overwhelming, and each time when we arrived at Huntsman, this lady was there. She let me talk, vent, or cry until I felt better or less stressed. Imagine, me stressed! She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who's job is patient and family support, and am I grateful she's there! She is very good at seeing who is there each day, taking a look, and asking if they need to talk. Each time I've needed her, she was available. Good job, Geri, and good job, Huntsman! I highly recommend that patients, caregivers and/or families take advantage of such resources available where they are receiving care. They can help people talk about the things they need to in a constructive way. It helps!
Josh also made his varsity basketball team, and is now working for a starting spot. We are going to have a very busy basketball season, but hey. That feels just right.
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So glad you have found someone helpful to support you. We were just cruising with our friend who received chemo and radiation for throat cancer this summer. He said that his oncologist's nurse was available each day by e-mail for his questions and concerns and that was the most helpful thing to him. He said she got him through some very tough times.
ReplyDeleteCongrats on everyone's basketball successes. And, must be Dani will be home before you know it. Boy, I'll bet she feels like time is flying by. Lindsay was supposed to be home by Thanksgiving, but of course, that's not happening. She's been moved to a more "needy" project and will stay until the first of the year. Oh, well. The holidays are just dates on the calendar! :-)
Love to you all!
Alanna
Thank you so much for always keeping us updated on Blaine's progress - we are praying everyday.
ReplyDeleteI am so happy for Josh! Have a blessed Thanksgiving with all your family! Love and miss you!Juanita
Thanks for the update, Marleigh. I am glad you have someone to talk to for support. It is so important. Sorry Blaine feels so yucky, but glad that it is better in some ways also. As always, praying for and missing you guys!
ReplyDeleteGo Josh!! Good for you!
Lots of love!
Hi guys!
ReplyDeleteWe miss you all dearly. It sounds like things have been rough but going well at the same time(if that makes any sense) We will continue to pray for your family. It is so good to hear that Josh made the b-ball team. Yay Josh! It must be so nice to be staying in Herber with the kids. That is a good sign that things are going along as planned. We hope you all have a great Thanksgiving and thanks so much for the updates, even if it is one sentance, we love to hear about you all. We are glad you have that shoulder to lean on at the hospital. Take care of yourslelf Marleigh and sing a little tune for us..We have always loved your beautiful voice. My little lady sang the national anthem at school last month in front of everyone. She said "Sister Savage would be so proud of me...I sang nice not loud!" We love you all take care
The Tremblays