Today's Update

Just got word from Frank that Carol's vital signs are stable. They are encouraging her to get up and walk around. And keeping her on broad spectrum antibiotics to fight this infection. No word on when she will be released. But things are lookin' up!!
Sally

Roto-Rooter to the Rescue

Seems that the high fever of Wednesday was a symptom of a "massive infection" around the area of Carol's stent. Most likely due to a blockage in the stent itself. Last night, in an endoscopic procedure, the blockage was "roto-rootered" out and a small plastic stent was put inside the original stent to allow for drainage. Once the infection is knocked down . . . with heavy doses of IV antibiotics . . . the plastic stent will be removed. That will probably happen next week. In the meantime, Carol will be in the hospital a little while longer til they get the fever down and the infection under control.

So . . . a bump in the road for our girl. But for Carol . . . not a problem! She's eager to get past this one, get back on the chemo schedule and back in the fight!!

Sally

A Bump in the Road

Had some bummer news at Johns Hopkins today. When I arrived for my chemo it appeared that I had a fever of 104 and jaundice and liver pressure. So, they admitted me and I am in overnight until they they get the fever down and blood pressure up. Also have to keep jaundice clear. Seems that it’s all being caused by a blockage or obstruction in my biliary stent. Basically only thing to do is a “rotorooter” of the stent which will be done when symptoms are gone.

So now I'm waiting/sleeping here in a very private, modern, large, room. Just
had a xray and EKG in my room! What service :). Now for a stroll with Frank
(the male nurse offered to escort me but you know Frank) through the halls-helps lower the risk of bloodclots and stroke. When we get back they put special compression bands on my legs.

Oh, and my blood pressure was very low when I got in here today - they finally got it up to 83/58 throughout the day and they want to get it up to at least 90. Before they can do anything else. But the good news is that my weight (which started at 153, dropped to 127, is now a whopping 143--WITH no sugar, red meat, hormonal chicken. Yay!!!

Not sure how long I will be in here. But they need to get the temp down,
infection cleared, stent cleared out, and chemo started up again so we can keep
in the fight. I want to keep these down times (no chemo) to a minimum!!!!

I realize, my prayer warriors, that I have given you quite a list to pray for!

Love,
Carol