Dr. Martin, came a little before 9:00 this morning. He took Doug's vitals, gave him a shot to increase his stem cells (filgrastrim) and took his blood. All his vitals including his temperature were all within the normal range. He looks good.
Zena, our housekeeper, came in her mask today. It is expected that the patients will enter neutropenia today or tomorrow. She will clean every day now using special disinfectants to assure our apartment is as clean and germ free as possible. I also have my anti-bacterial wipes to use during the day and my Lysol spray and cleaner. To wash the dishes, I am adding Clorox to the water to assure we are killing germs.
I got hold of EZ Cruizer, the maker of Doug's wheelchair today in Los Angeles. They were very helpful. I sent them pictures of the probem. They reminded me of the toolkit that I had put in the bag under the chair when we got it. They are express mailing the part we need and I will be able to fix the chair with the toolkit. Whew! Doug is very relieved. I should be able to have it fixed by the end of the week.
We left for the clinic at 12:30. It was funny to see everyone including Angel in masks. Kirsten, one of our patients was not with us, we learned that she had not been well and was taken to the clinic in the morning. Apparently she has suffered a relapse. They placed her on steriods. The doctors said this sometimes happens. We all are concerned for her and praying for her. The mood was very quiet in the van. I think this is what some call the roller-coaster of recovery. All are hoping to feel better, to be improving, but afraid it is not happening and of course everyone is still in recovery from all they have been through in the last 2 weeks. I think everyone felt a little better after the doctor appointments. It was good for everyone to see each other. Isolation is a little tough.
We met with Dr. Priesca for about 10 minutes. He reviewed the blood work with us. Doug has not entered neutropenia. Neutopenia means low neutrophil count. Neutrophils ar a type of white blood cell responsible for fighting infections. Due to chemotherapy, a reduction of white bood cells happens. Normal counts are between 4,000 and 12,000. Doug's were 5,600 today. Two out of the 6 people in our group have not entered neutroprenia yet.
We returned home, took a nap and then had dinner. Doug is resting now and continues to feel pretty well all things considered. We are grateful to be moving forward on this journey.
Our prayer today:
Holy One, we give you thanks and praise for all who care for us and take care of us. We thank you for a strong community that surrounds us and reminds us of your presense. We thank you for the love that is sent to us and blesses us. We pray for our friends and companions, especially Kirsten and Suzie as they continue to heal. We give thanks for the healing of Doug's cold and we pray that he will continue to experience healing in his body, mind and spirit. Continue to be with us this night, so that we may sleep, resting in peace. Amen
You seem introspective and a bit tired. Relieved that the cold had seem to pass Doug by. I'm delighted to hear about the repair for the chair. Wonder women strikes again. Thinking of you, holding you tightly in our thoughts, hearts and prayers. Goodnight.
ReplyDelete