'Twas the NIght Before... (I think)
I feel like a kid on Christmas Eve. Early this morning, I had my usual 3:15 AM blood draw. I was particularly interested in the results today, because yesterday's results had suggested that I am bouncing back from my chemotherapy, but they weren't conclusive. My platelets had gone up from 80 to 188; my ANC had gone from 40 to 80, and my hemoglobin fell only slightly.
This morning I learned my platelets had gone up to 285; my ANC had gone up to 320, and my hemoglobin increased spontaneously for the first time since I have been here. These are all wonderful signs, and the nursing staff apparently agree. Several of them have come by this afternoon to say good-bye, because they feel sure I will go home tomorrow. I am trying hard to be realistic about this whole thing, but still I am almost giddy, as I used to be on Christmas Eve. Even if I don't go home tomorrow, it almost certainly will happen by Tuesday. Thank you, Lord, you are so good to me.
Now, back down to earth, briefly. Jill has had some legitimate concerns about my return, because she has no medical background of any kind (except, perhaps, raising kids!). She is concerned as to whether she will be able to do all the right things. Dr. Hernandez-Torres, one of the HemOncs was in this morning and, I think, set her mind at ease. We will have so much support and so many written instructions to refer to and so many ways to connect with the hematology team that help will be only a phone call away.
Now, as to the staff here at Club Sunnyside, I have nothing but praise and admiration for them. Every last one of them has been professional, knowledgeable, conscientious, efficient, and above all, caring. I have felt like a king with his loyal subjects waiting on his every whim. That includes the doctors, the nurses, the CNAs, the housekeeping personnel; everyone. If ya gotta be sick, do it here!
Once I AM home, I will continue blogging, of course, because this journey is really just beginning, so keep on coming back from time to time. I love the company and Jill and I need the support.
Be sure to check in tomorrow to see if I do get to go home!
We look forward to seeing you walk in the neighborhood again. Your blogs are great and a good reminder for us to pray for both of you.
ReplyDeleteWhoop, whoop!!! This is so thrilling and I'm so excited for you to be home again and to start to feel all cozy in your own bed with no 3am blood draws. It must feel exciting and daunting all at the same time!! Donalynn
ReplyDeleteCan't wait for you to be home even if we must keep our distance. I know Jill will be super excited.
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