JoAnne is stable today. She sat up in the chair for several hours, took a shower (sitting down) and had some lunch. Moving around is tough as she is experiencing vertigo, although she manages as long as we take it slow. She has very little stamina. I will say this. Just the fundamental aspects of the whole procedure would drive me nuts. Pumps running constantly, can't get out of bed without a logistical plan, lines hanging out of your chest that constantly have to be adjusted and rerouted, a Foley catheter (removed today) that is like having a small garden hose hanging between your legs and that is only the start. Today I told JoJo how impressed I was with the manner in which she is holding it all together. Instead of her usual, "Yea, Yea, Yea," she looked my way and said, "Thank you. That means a lot to me."
A pulmonologist came by to weigh in on lung issues. Yesterday's CT scan showed some pneumonia in her left lung. Temps continue to run up towards 102, but Tylenol is keeping that in check and her blood pressure is stable. Tomorrow they are going to do a bronchoscopy in an attempt to identify the organism responsible for the infection. I wondered why they couldn't detect it through blood cultures, and the doctor explained that there are some viral or fungal infections that don't show up in the blood.
Because of all the past chemo and chronic respiratory issues that JoAnne has had, the doctors are very sensitive to anything lung related. Their attentiveness gives me a sense of confidence that they will be able to get the infection under control. On the other hand, they originally were going to do the procedure tonight. Fluid is sprayed into the lung through the bronchoscope and recollected for analysis. I get the impression there are some things that can go wrong. Doctor Shune said they want to make sure they have a full complement of the right staffers on tomorrow rather than do it with a lighter evening crew.
This is that tough time where the new cells haven't had a chance to engraft and begin building a new immune system. Hurry up please!
Cancer sucks
JoAnne and Kevin:
ReplyDeleteYour strength and stamina amazes us. You are in our thoughts and prayers. As we said in the 70's "Keep on Truckin". I think that was it right Kevin? Or was it YMCA? you're doing the dance right now. Seriously you guys are on our minds every day. God Bless!!
So glad to hear that today is a better day. I am in awe of both of you- such strength, grace and resilience! Rest up; tomorrow will be a brand new day. Come on, new stem cells- we're waiting!
ReplyDeleteDenise
PS- Cancer sucks
Thanks once again Kevin for filling us all in. It can't be easy for either one of you.
ReplyDeleteGood to hear JoAnne that you were able to sit and shower and eat a little something.
May today be better than yesterday.
Praying for the stem cells and you two too.
Carolyn D
Cancer cancer go away. Do not come back another day!