Today marks Jamie’s first full week here at UWMC as well as her release from the bonds of the IV pump. After breakfast this morning she took her first regiment of oral pain medication and within an hour they were disconnecting the IV pump and taking away her PCA button.
The detachment of the IV also made her first shower of the week possible, not only cleansing her body but also visibly refreshing her spirit. Showering was done with the assistance of Nurse May, who always knows just what to do to make her feel her best. I am now constantly living in her shadow, receiving comments such as “That isn’t how May does it…” as I fumble with her gown or the bed controls.
With discharge in sight, I took one last shower at the Silver Cloud before packing up and relinquishing my room, planning to stick it out with Jamie for the last few days. Don’t worry, there is a shower in the guest lounge on the 8th floor, so I promise not to let my hygiene slip.
Buzz and Nona Reynolds came this afternoon to bring Jamie some excellent lounge wear and a few childhood photos of the Reynolds / McLaughlin gang. I always enjoy their company and was particularly touched by Buzz’s empathy for me regards my recent change in hair cut professionals. I also found out that Nona has been purposely keeping Buzz from using the internet so as to prevent him from viewing Craigslist. Buzz, come on buy next week and I will give you some personal instruction. As Ken Sr. will tell you, once you discover Craiglist, you will no longer feel the need to sleep. And don’t the women worry about us spending too much $$, there is plenty of good stuff for free on there.
Sounds like the Reynolds clan need their own blog site just to publish all the news from their side of 302; congratulations Jeff on your engagement.
The transition from the IV was a success and Jamie spent most of midday day circling the halls of our wing beaming like a kid on a new bike, dazzling doctors, nurses, patients and guests alike with her ever increasing lap times. I love to see her smile.
With increased activity comes a better appetite and I can no longer rely on Jamie’s leftovers for nourishment. I did however have enough foresight to get her to mark the PB cookie and some milk at lunchtime for I knew she would readily give it up. Yes, this is a hint as to my current cookie status; I have resorted to eating commercially made cookies.
Tonight Jamie’s dinner came, which included everything but macaroni and cheese. So I trotted down to the cafeteria to procure some and to my disappointment they appeared to be out. Eager to please, I decided to ask. The woman behind the counter began to explain that they sold out when she was interrupted by a heavily accented man, who asked “is this for a patient?”. I said yes, for my wife and he said “why doesn’t she just ask for it to be served to her?”. I attempted to explain to him that she had filled out the menu herself the prior eve and that she had ordered macaroni for lunch and now desired it again. He seemed perplexed and pointed to a container on the counter, indicating that the woman should give it to me. She hesitated, but he nodded and I gleefully put it on my tray. I thanked him and before I turned he continued to elaborate on how each floor of the hospital has a “nourishment” room which contains an array of foods such as cheese & crackers, ice cream, cereal and even microwavable macaroni.
I had heard of this mysterious nourishment room, but was sternly warned by the nursing staff to stay out, with the explanation that some quarantined patients had entered the room thereby compromising others’ health, forcing them to close it to non staff members. I explained this to the man in the cafeteria and he rebuffed this idea and said that this area should be accessible to all and that the food was for the patients.
Have I stumbled across some great conspiracy on 7 SE, where the nurses are keeping some plethora of tasty snack hidden from me? Has my reputation as a perpetual snacker scared them? Or maybe it was my vomiting that has kept them quite, based on a fear that I might gorge myself and then just puke it up in the hall.?
I promptly returned to our room to find the evening nurse medicating Jamie. I immediately started interrogating her, “why have you been keeping this information from us?”, “where do you keep the ice cream and macaroni?”. She was skillfully evasive and indirect, solid as a rock, unbreakable. She responded in a polite nurse tone with “all you have to do is ask, I would be happy to get something for you” and “we might have some frozen Lean Cuisine, but it is not as good as the cafeteria”. Tomorrow I will try a different approach using Jamie as my ally……
Jess and Shane came tonight for a long visit, and I watched Shane squirm as Jamie recounted the prior month’s events in vivid detail. This of course reminded me of myself not to long ago when watching a blood draw or an IV being installed would be more than I could handle, forcing me to sit down and focus if I was to remain lucid. Funny how circumstances quickly harden you and we rise to the occasion, especially for the ones we love. I thought I would have difficulty looking at Jamie’s incisions or watching the nurses work. But both necessity and the hope for a positive outcome have re shaped my view, and I find the uncompromising strength to be by her side to comfort her through these challenges.
Jess and Shane brought a nice bundle of magazines (which tastefully did not include Oprah) as well as a huge bag of Tootsie rolls, a sort of methadone to get me through these cookieless nights. Thanks for the mags, they do a great job of filling the expanse of time that comes with the healing process, and are an excellent sleep aid when you are hyped up. Good luck on day 3 Shane.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
A Little Slice of Heaven
Well I finally feel well enough to post. I am sitting up in the most uncomfortable chair, but it will do. I have the most amazing view of the montlake cut. I have been up for most of the day, walking the halls or sitting on the edge of the bed.
Today I awoke to my favorite nurse May saying "Good Morning!" Boy was I glad to see her. She has been a lifesaver since the day I was admitted. She takes such good care of me. She listens to how I am feeling and helps me to decide how we should proceed.
I had a rough night last night with the nurse insisting that I would be taken off the PCA and switched over to oral meds. True to form, I refused to take the meds until I had breakfast and the nausea had subsided. I realize that this is the only way I will get to come home, but I am unwilling to be convinced at 5:30 am that is time to switch meds. So needless to say, I waited until I ate breakfast and I am off the IV machine. I can now roam the halls free as a bird. It is also a million times easier to go to the little girls room by myself.
May helped me take my first shower. I kept saying to her it was like heaven and she just says "I bet it is" and laughs. I love her laugh. She is so genuinely kind. I got to wash my hair and my body...I smell a bit better now. I still have a slight "medical smell".
I was kinda sad not to have Michael as my nurse as well. He has also taken such great care of me, but sorry Michael, I'm a bit more comfortable with May giving me a bath :)
I'm definitely on the road to recovery. I am starting to feel human again. Although I just got weighed and I weigh more than when I came into this place. I am retaining a bit of fluids, which has decided to plant on my thighs and bum!! Hopefully that will go away soon, because I don't think I will be able to fit into any of my pants.
I would like to thank everyone for all their great comments. Some days when I can't read them myself, I make John or whoever is here read them to me. The really lift my spirits and calm me when I am feeling anxious. It is so nice to know that I am so loved and supported.
Today I awoke to my favorite nurse May saying "Good Morning!" Boy was I glad to see her. She has been a lifesaver since the day I was admitted. She takes such good care of me. She listens to how I am feeling and helps me to decide how we should proceed.
I had a rough night last night with the nurse insisting that I would be taken off the PCA and switched over to oral meds. True to form, I refused to take the meds until I had breakfast and the nausea had subsided. I realize that this is the only way I will get to come home, but I am unwilling to be convinced at 5:30 am that is time to switch meds. So needless to say, I waited until I ate breakfast and I am off the IV machine. I can now roam the halls free as a bird. It is also a million times easier to go to the little girls room by myself.
May helped me take my first shower. I kept saying to her it was like heaven and she just says "I bet it is" and laughs. I love her laugh. She is so genuinely kind. I got to wash my hair and my body...I smell a bit better now. I still have a slight "medical smell".
I was kinda sad not to have Michael as my nurse as well. He has also taken such great care of me, but sorry Michael, I'm a bit more comfortable with May giving me a bath :)
I'm definitely on the road to recovery. I am starting to feel human again. Although I just got weighed and I weigh more than when I came into this place. I am retaining a bit of fluids, which has decided to plant on my thighs and bum!! Hopefully that will go away soon, because I don't think I will be able to fit into any of my pants.
I would like to thank everyone for all their great comments. Some days when I can't read them myself, I make John or whoever is here read them to me. The really lift my spirits and calm me when I am feeling anxious. It is so nice to know that I am so loved and supported.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Tiny Bubbles
Despite Jamie's bout with severe gas pains sometime after 2 AM this morning I actually think that last night had to be one of the more restful I have had in weeks. I think it must be my conscience at ease, knowing that Jamie’s trajectory is now one of healing.
After morning inspection by the residents (I barely bother to sit in bed when they come in anymore), I had another ok cafeteria breakfast of a biscuit sandwich and cinnamon roll. Last week there were fried eggs over easy, but despite promises by the holiday weekend crew they have not re appeared these last two days.
Jamie got a double breakfast order this AM, first the familiar array of “clears”, followed by what is known as the “soft” menu. She again snubbed the peach Jell-O, but poked at the cream of wheat and drank the juice. The “soft” Lunch was only slightly more appetizing, so I augmented it with vegetable broth and cherry Jell-O (ala Sharon of course). Lunch also included a very familiar looking biscuit which I was compelled to steal half of. Jamie has also been receiving a small carton of milk with her meals, which I ferret away in my personal in room cooler. This strange compulsion reminded me of my first grade teacher Mrs. Arnold and her cohort Mrs. Lowery (who was to have me for second grade) , who used to collect un opened milks and half eaten fish which sandwiches for their cats as we turned in our trays at the end of lunch period.
Thankfully I was spared an institutionalized lunch, again due to Sharon’s generosity, and ate a lovely burrito smothered in salsa.
We returned from our first walk of the day to a large parcel on the bed. Inside was a plush replica of Shorty. This was a welcome addition to our room for both of us, as I think the one thing we miss most from home is our comical little companion. My mother arrived later in the day with some photos for the bulletin board as well as some digital video of Shorty fighting the lawn sprinkler. Thanks mom, you read our minds and brightened our day.
This afternoon was well marked by the removal of Jamie’s epidural catheter, thus bringing back “sensation” to her torso and abdomen. They also terminated her continuous dosing of hydromorphone, leaving her to use her PCA augmented by oral Tylenol and an occasional shot of toradol via IV.
For dinner Jamie was served a lovely chicken and pale pea dish with a side of pasta, salty soup and a dry roll (reincarnated biscuit?). Inspired by my parents presence I felt a wave of frivolity come over me and accepted my Dad’s invitation to go to the cafeteria. Like father like son, we lined up at the hamburger grill and both ordered some burgers which actually were quite satisfying. I also picked up some rice and mashed potatoes for Jamie, allowing here to avoid the “soft” entrée.
Things in our ward seem very quiet tonight, and after getting Jamie settled in for a bit, I snuck out for a brisk walk at dusk. After a loop around the building I was satisfied and returned to find Jamie gabbing to Katrina on the phone. I was happy to see her so well engaged, such distractions can at least briefly remove you from the day’s discomforts.
Tomorrow will mark even more milestones for recovery, but I will leave that for later, lest I run out of things to talk about. Good night.
After morning inspection by the residents (I barely bother to sit in bed when they come in anymore), I had another ok cafeteria breakfast of a biscuit sandwich and cinnamon roll. Last week there were fried eggs over easy, but despite promises by the holiday weekend crew they have not re appeared these last two days.
Jamie got a double breakfast order this AM, first the familiar array of “clears”, followed by what is known as the “soft” menu. She again snubbed the peach Jell-O, but poked at the cream of wheat and drank the juice. The “soft” Lunch was only slightly more appetizing, so I augmented it with vegetable broth and cherry Jell-O (ala Sharon of course). Lunch also included a very familiar looking biscuit which I was compelled to steal half of. Jamie has also been receiving a small carton of milk with her meals, which I ferret away in my personal in room cooler. This strange compulsion reminded me of my first grade teacher Mrs. Arnold and her cohort Mrs. Lowery (who was to have me for second grade) , who used to collect un opened milks and half eaten fish which sandwiches for their cats as we turned in our trays at the end of lunch period.
Thankfully I was spared an institutionalized lunch, again due to Sharon’s generosity, and ate a lovely burrito smothered in salsa.
We returned from our first walk of the day to a large parcel on the bed. Inside was a plush replica of Shorty. This was a welcome addition to our room for both of us, as I think the one thing we miss most from home is our comical little companion. My mother arrived later in the day with some photos for the bulletin board as well as some digital video of Shorty fighting the lawn sprinkler. Thanks mom, you read our minds and brightened our day.
This afternoon was well marked by the removal of Jamie’s epidural catheter, thus bringing back “sensation” to her torso and abdomen. They also terminated her continuous dosing of hydromorphone, leaving her to use her PCA augmented by oral Tylenol and an occasional shot of toradol via IV.
For dinner Jamie was served a lovely chicken and pale pea dish with a side of pasta, salty soup and a dry roll (reincarnated biscuit?). Inspired by my parents presence I felt a wave of frivolity come over me and accepted my Dad’s invitation to go to the cafeteria. Like father like son, we lined up at the hamburger grill and both ordered some burgers which actually were quite satisfying. I also picked up some rice and mashed potatoes for Jamie, allowing here to avoid the “soft” entrée.
Things in our ward seem very quiet tonight, and after getting Jamie settled in for a bit, I snuck out for a brisk walk at dusk. After a loop around the building I was satisfied and returned to find Jamie gabbing to Katrina on the phone. I was happy to see her so well engaged, such distractions can at least briefly remove you from the day’s discomforts.
Tomorrow will mark even more milestones for recovery, but I will leave that for later, lest I run out of things to talk about. Good night.
Jamie Calling
Jamie and I had a great phone visit tonight. She called me from her room for a late-night editorial meeting. Actually, she really just wanted to find out how my dad's doing because he's in the hospital too. Yet another example of how great Jamie and John are — concerned about others in the middle of her recovery. Anyway, here are a few fun details that I learned tonight, to keep the blogger fans going until John's next great post:
- Jamie had fabulous mashed potatoes and gravy for dinner tonight and loved them
- She's cruisin' the halls like an old pro
- She gets to take a shower tomorrow — especially exciting after all the hallway racing she's been up to lately.
- She gets IV pain meds stopped tomorrow and moves on to oral (since she's eating soft solids now).
- And, she sounds great and is looking forward to heading home...maybe as early as Saturday!
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
The First Supper
Today was a good day. So far Jamie has taken two long walks around the wing and even sat in the guest chair to surf the net and read her email. She got her first hospital meal today which the anesthesiologist said was UWMC’s standard test for nausea. This first tray was a simple affair; Jell-O, juice and some lemon Italian ice. She picked at it bit but didn’t find it appealing, so I dashed to the hotel to get some of the goods we used during surgery prep hoping to tempt her appetite.
Well apparently the food was not the issue, it was the service, because shortly after our morning routine, Pete and Sharon showed up and Sharon was stuffing Jamie like a holiday turkey. She ate her Jell-O, broth and a package of crackers Sharon ordered for her. Not to be left out Sharon restocked my stores as well and I had a nice burrito lunch.
Pete and Sharon also brought two care packages, one of their doing and another from the Stoll family. Both brought a bounty of feel good and comfort items, but mostly I think it is the positive thoughts of love and friendship that they represent that Jamie enjoys most. Sharon also graciously loaned us a few pillow cases for Jamie’s personal pillow as she has found that the hospital version is ok for propping yourself up or resting your feet on, but she prefers her sheep’s wool stuffing from home.
I think I have also forgotten to mention the balloons Fred and Kim sent previous, as they do a great job of saying you care without taking up precious floor space. Our little space is starting to look like a dorm room and based on the fact that they gave us a wall fan yesterday, it must be starting to smell like one to.
Hard to believe that tomorrow is day 7. It has all happened so fast. With Jamie’s activity level up the days seem to fly by. By the time we wake up, have our morning inspection from Dr. Goff and team, walk, bath and nap, we have just enough time for visitors then I am rushing to the cafeteria to get a last bite before it closes. Sleep is still a bit disrupted with nightly vital checks and IV changes but it works.
We can’t say enough about the great staff here at UWMC 7SE and Dr. Goff’s team. Everyone has been so helpful and supportive. Even after being in surgery since early AM, Dr. Goff still found time today to check on Jamie and bring us some copies of paperwork I asked for. The nursing staff has been excellent as well and no matter what the shift or how long they have been on duty we always get 100% from them. The combination of professional skill and compassion here is inspiring.
Well apparently the food was not the issue, it was the service, because shortly after our morning routine, Pete and Sharon showed up and Sharon was stuffing Jamie like a holiday turkey. She ate her Jell-O, broth and a package of crackers Sharon ordered for her. Not to be left out Sharon restocked my stores as well and I had a nice burrito lunch.
Pete and Sharon also brought two care packages, one of their doing and another from the Stoll family. Both brought a bounty of feel good and comfort items, but mostly I think it is the positive thoughts of love and friendship that they represent that Jamie enjoys most. Sharon also graciously loaned us a few pillow cases for Jamie’s personal pillow as she has found that the hospital version is ok for propping yourself up or resting your feet on, but she prefers her sheep’s wool stuffing from home.
I think I have also forgotten to mention the balloons Fred and Kim sent previous, as they do a great job of saying you care without taking up precious floor space. Our little space is starting to look like a dorm room and based on the fact that they gave us a wall fan yesterday, it must be starting to smell like one to.
Hard to believe that tomorrow is day 7. It has all happened so fast. With Jamie’s activity level up the days seem to fly by. By the time we wake up, have our morning inspection from Dr. Goff and team, walk, bath and nap, we have just enough time for visitors then I am rushing to the cafeteria to get a last bite before it closes. Sleep is still a bit disrupted with nightly vital checks and IV changes but it works.
We can’t say enough about the great staff here at UWMC 7SE and Dr. Goff’s team. Everyone has been so helpful and supportive. Even after being in surgery since early AM, Dr. Goff still found time today to check on Jamie and bring us some copies of paperwork I asked for. The nursing staff has been excellent as well and no matter what the shift or how long they have been on duty we always get 100% from them. The combination of professional skill and compassion here is inspiring.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Excuse me, excuse me, from the bottom of my heart...
We made another milestone today: Jamie passed gas. Not only does this mean that the surgeon in fact hooked everything back up correctly, it also means that Jamie will be eating and drinking soon. I unfortunately was not here for the event, as I was having a grilled cheese sandwich in the cafeteria. But those present recounted it as a most jubilant occasion with Jamie’s eyes lighting up like a child’s on Christmas morning.
I think this also marks Jamie’s readiness for regular guests, but please be courteous and let us know when you plan to arrive to prevent overcrowding and wearing Jamie out. She has consistently been walking and doing her daily hygiene around 9:oo or 10:00 a.m., so late morning is not convenient.
Jamie’s walk this morning was epic, with nurse Hallie taking her clear to the end of the wing, around the nurses’ station and back to her room. Afterwards Chris and I helped Jamie with her morning routine, and both Jamie and I settled in for a long nap.
We also met with Dr. Goff this morning, who has proposed that Jamie join a trial group that undergoes chemotherapy at a more aggressive pace. Instead of the normal 21 day cycle, Jamie would receive chemo every 15 days, along with a drug called Neulestra to boost her immune system. The primary drug mix is the same, with the only exception being that the Neulestra is given initially, instead of around the 4th cycle under the normal course. According to Dr. Goff Jamie could be ready to start this as soon as one week following discharge.
As for me, I have had made my self infamous by vomiting in the hall outside Jamie’s room last night. Last evening, with Ken and Chris here I thought I would take a couple of hours to run some errands and have a meal off campus. I got my chores done, showered up and went to what had been my favorite neighborhood sushi joint for some culinary adventure. The event being still clear in my mind I would prefer not to recount my menu choices, but let’s just say I pulled my usual and asked the chef “what's good tonight”. About 4 hours later I noted that I was feeling a bit nauseous so I went downstairs to walk a bit and buy a soda. The first soda machine took my money but gave no product (a bad omen which I did not recognize at the time), so I found another machine down a side corridor by the service elevator. I returned to the room, took a few sips of Sprite and started to relax. Then it hit me. I lurched for the in room trash can, but restrained myself. Thinking I could overpower it, I went out into the hall. Soon overwhelmed, I grabbed a small trash can but missed; spraying all over myself and the hallway. I momentarily regained focus and went back into Jamie’s bathroom, where I continued to heave. Jamie was startled awake, and hit her call button. By this time things had subsided. I swabbed up what I could and then went to find Michael to confess (I had been touting my sushi eating skills to him earlier). Michael who was literally minutes from the end of his shift (in his steadfast way) assured me that this was one place I did not have to be embarrassed about bodily functions. Jamie soon demanded my removal from her room, and I called Chris to take my watch. I returned to the hotel (wretched a bit more) and then slept. I awoke his morning a bit shy of appetite, but later ate the egg breakfast special without remorse.
Jamie and I appreciate all of your comments and support. I look forward to checking the blog several times as day. In the past we have been reading to Jamie, but today I think she will be strong and focused enough to use her own laptop.
(Now edited by popular demand.)
I think this also marks Jamie’s readiness for regular guests, but please be courteous and let us know when you plan to arrive to prevent overcrowding and wearing Jamie out. She has consistently been walking and doing her daily hygiene around 9:oo or 10:00 a.m., so late morning is not convenient.
Jamie’s walk this morning was epic, with nurse Hallie taking her clear to the end of the wing, around the nurses’ station and back to her room. Afterwards Chris and I helped Jamie with her morning routine, and both Jamie and I settled in for a long nap.
We also met with Dr. Goff this morning, who has proposed that Jamie join a trial group that undergoes chemotherapy at a more aggressive pace. Instead of the normal 21 day cycle, Jamie would receive chemo every 15 days, along with a drug called Neulestra to boost her immune system. The primary drug mix is the same, with the only exception being that the Neulestra is given initially, instead of around the 4th cycle under the normal course. According to Dr. Goff Jamie could be ready to start this as soon as one week following discharge.
As for me, I have had made my self infamous by vomiting in the hall outside Jamie’s room last night. Last evening, with Ken and Chris here I thought I would take a couple of hours to run some errands and have a meal off campus. I got my chores done, showered up and went to what had been my favorite neighborhood sushi joint for some culinary adventure. The event being still clear in my mind I would prefer not to recount my menu choices, but let’s just say I pulled my usual and asked the chef “what's good tonight”. About 4 hours later I noted that I was feeling a bit nauseous so I went downstairs to walk a bit and buy a soda. The first soda machine took my money but gave no product (a bad omen which I did not recognize at the time), so I found another machine down a side corridor by the service elevator. I returned to the room, took a few sips of Sprite and started to relax. Then it hit me. I lurched for the in room trash can, but restrained myself. Thinking I could overpower it, I went out into the hall. Soon overwhelmed, I grabbed a small trash can but missed; spraying all over myself and the hallway. I momentarily regained focus and went back into Jamie’s bathroom, where I continued to heave. Jamie was startled awake, and hit her call button. By this time things had subsided. I swabbed up what I could and then went to find Michael to confess (I had been touting my sushi eating skills to him earlier). Michael who was literally minutes from the end of his shift (in his steadfast way) assured me that this was one place I did not have to be embarrassed about bodily functions. Jamie soon demanded my removal from her room, and I called Chris to take my watch. I returned to the hotel (wretched a bit more) and then slept. I awoke his morning a bit shy of appetite, but later ate the egg breakfast special without remorse.
Jamie and I appreciate all of your comments and support. I look forward to checking the blog several times as day. In the past we have been reading to Jamie, but today I think she will be strong and focused enough to use her own laptop.
(Now edited by popular demand.)
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Day 3, mending well
Jennifer pulled another night shift for me, so I feel like I am starting to recharge. We have been here long enough that I know most of the staff and the charge nurse was kind enough to assign Heidi for the late shift so I did not feel compelled to stay for the shift change.
I overslept a bit and just made it in time to see Dr. Goff, who for the first time spoke in depth about chemotherapy. This can be a very scary subject, and I know it gives me some anxiety, but I think we both see it as a necessary and obstacle to be surmounted on Jamie’s journey to recovery. It also makes me feel like we are moving beyond the surgery to the next phase.
Nurse May worked her magic again today, helping Jamie wash her hair and spruce up a bit after marching her up and down the hall. This woman has been so caring and gone beyond her duty to make my wife comfortable. Her service is so personal it is hard to imagine that she actually attends at least two other patients at the same time.
My parents were here this AM for a quick visit and to haul some surplus cookies away to be saved for our arrival home. I also found out this morning that our day nurse is a fellow Weight Watcher, so I have felt some guilt about being a food pusher. But every time I peek into the lunchroom I see that someone is enjoying all these treats. I am also certain that such bribes are the reason I find the staff so eager to fulfill any and all requests we make. I of course being a man of moderation limit myself to the equivalent of 12 full size cookies a day so as to avoid overdose.
I discovered the Cancer Library on the 8th floor last night while seeking some VHS tapes for Jamie’s in room player. Despite its name it is not a room full of books on cancer, rather it is a nice lounge and lunch room to retreat to for a quick bite, cup of coffee or casual conversation with others here with a family member. I have been packing a lunch each day using rations supplied by my mom, Sharon and Anne, so it is a very convenient place to heat something up and sit for a bit.
Things are pretty quite this afternoon, both Jamie and Jen a napping, I am just sitting here relaxing, catching up on the blog comments. The hustle of the hospital has visibly decreased, giving us some refreshing tranquility. It is one of those dreary Seattle Sundays where you just feel like being inside and reading a book or watching an old movie.
I overslept a bit and just made it in time to see Dr. Goff, who for the first time spoke in depth about chemotherapy. This can be a very scary subject, and I know it gives me some anxiety, but I think we both see it as a necessary and obstacle to be surmounted on Jamie’s journey to recovery. It also makes me feel like we are moving beyond the surgery to the next phase.
Nurse May worked her magic again today, helping Jamie wash her hair and spruce up a bit after marching her up and down the hall. This woman has been so caring and gone beyond her duty to make my wife comfortable. Her service is so personal it is hard to imagine that she actually attends at least two other patients at the same time.
My parents were here this AM for a quick visit and to haul some surplus cookies away to be saved for our arrival home. I also found out this morning that our day nurse is a fellow Weight Watcher, so I have felt some guilt about being a food pusher. But every time I peek into the lunchroom I see that someone is enjoying all these treats. I am also certain that such bribes are the reason I find the staff so eager to fulfill any and all requests we make. I of course being a man of moderation limit myself to the equivalent of 12 full size cookies a day so as to avoid overdose.
I discovered the Cancer Library on the 8th floor last night while seeking some VHS tapes for Jamie’s in room player. Despite its name it is not a room full of books on cancer, rather it is a nice lounge and lunch room to retreat to for a quick bite, cup of coffee or casual conversation with others here with a family member. I have been packing a lunch each day using rations supplied by my mom, Sharon and Anne, so it is a very convenient place to heat something up and sit for a bit.
Things are pretty quite this afternoon, both Jamie and Jen a napping, I am just sitting here relaxing, catching up on the blog comments. The hustle of the hospital has visibly decreased, giving us some refreshing tranquility. It is one of those dreary Seattle Sundays where you just feel like being inside and reading a book or watching an old movie.
Walk? Check. Smile & Chuckle? Check.
Jamie looks amazing. Beautiful as ever and in charge—two days after surgery—just as it should be. She's checking off her daily goals on the white board by her door, just as efficiently as she handles her cabinet order checklists at work. Under her direction, John managed the bed controls pretty well too. He takes such excellent care of Jamie. And, it was good to see the incredibly attentive and efficient nursing staff at work helping her heal.
She says that walking actually made her feel better today and she was looking forward to a second "stroll" later this evening. It's exciting to see how motivated she is. And, it was most fun to see her chuckle and smile today several times.
All the flowers in her room are gorgeous, although she really needs more horizontal space for floral display. If only they made floral arrangements that hung from the wall, that would be perfect. She does have a great cork board opposite her bed though where she can see cards and other cheerful things that folks are sending.
*Note to John: That dandy little "tea spot" you & Joel visited on Montlake serves an excellent mangodilla (mango and chicken quesadilla) for a quick dinner and a wicked good "medicinal" Mexican Coffee drink that I'm sure the Irish invented...
She says that walking actually made her feel better today and she was looking forward to a second "stroll" later this evening. It's exciting to see how motivated she is. And, it was most fun to see her chuckle and smile today several times.
All the flowers in her room are gorgeous, although she really needs more horizontal space for floral display. If only they made floral arrangements that hung from the wall, that would be perfect. She does have a great cork board opposite her bed though where she can see cards and other cheerful things that folks are sending.
*Note to John: That dandy little "tea spot" you & Joel visited on Montlake serves an excellent mangodilla (mango and chicken quesadilla) for a quick dinner and a wicked good "medicinal" Mexican Coffee drink that I'm sure the Irish invented...
Saturday, May 26, 2007
One small step for man.........
Nurse May's efforts today rewarded us with Jamie sitting up for an extended period followed by a short walk to the window and back to bed. Afterwards she was certainly exhausted, but a good nap has restored both her strength and spirit.
She is now giving herself her own ice and even brushed her teeth. I was also allowed to comb her hair and on several occasions invited to adjust the bed for her. Boy was I nervous. Under the stress of it all, the Crase family twitch really took over and I had some trouble maintaining a steady, but light press on the button. Thankfully no permanent damage was done to Jamie or our relationship.
Dave and Anne came today as well as Kenny and Beth. Jen is still here although she had to go to the hotel for a quick shower and nap. I sure appreciate her sharing duties with me. It has been nice to be able to get some fresh air, while knowing that someone is still by Jamie's side.
Jamie got her first estrogen patch today, I know so little about the dark feminine sciences to comment much, but apparently this has also improved her mood.
Lots of churning in her stomach today, a positive sign that we are headed towards eating and drinking in the next few days. She still has lots of gas pain and has let out a few burps, so we eagerly await the big one that tells us all is clear.
I was glad to see Michael on night shift again, he did a great job getting us through the evening yesterday. He is so thorough and seems to endure my endless quizzing with little irritation.
Jamie got some beautiful flowers today from Dick, Kris and Shelby, and Beth brought a wonderful pot of daisy which I can't wait to plant in our garden. Jen gets the award for best gift today for the foil balloon and turtle weight which brightens up the room, yet takes no precious floor or counter space. Thanks Anne for the PJ's. To the Lucero family thanks for the word search book, mag and excellent handmade card (posted on the bulletin board where Jamie can see). Dana Miller sent more word search and puzzle books and blanket, Jamie said you knew to send the puzzle books because she did them on the bus to softball games. Katrina of course is out of control and deserves thanks for another mag, new insulated mug and some great juice for use in a few days.
Joel and I also got to go out for a bit today, we found a quaint little place down on the Montlake Cut where we could talk about our feelings and enjoy a nice warm herbal tea.
Today's treats included Beth's banana bread as well as even more cookies and banana bread from Jen's coworker Rhonda. All these snacks serve well to sustain us day and night as well as reward our excellent nursing staff.
Now a more serious note. It has come to my attention that some of my posts have been altered and what you read my not be precisely my own hand. It seems hard to believe that the "man" is trying to control such a meager and politically neutral news source as this. This is not the Internet Al Gore dreamed of.
(Minor spelling & grammatical changes may have been made to this post. The content of its character has not been altered.)
She is now giving herself her own ice and even brushed her teeth. I was also allowed to comb her hair and on several occasions invited to adjust the bed for her. Boy was I nervous. Under the stress of it all, the Crase family twitch really took over and I had some trouble maintaining a steady, but light press on the button. Thankfully no permanent damage was done to Jamie or our relationship.
Dave and Anne came today as well as Kenny and Beth. Jen is still here although she had to go to the hotel for a quick shower and nap. I sure appreciate her sharing duties with me. It has been nice to be able to get some fresh air, while knowing that someone is still by Jamie's side.
Jamie got her first estrogen patch today, I know so little about the dark feminine sciences to comment much, but apparently this has also improved her mood.
Lots of churning in her stomach today, a positive sign that we are headed towards eating and drinking in the next few days. She still has lots of gas pain and has let out a few burps, so we eagerly await the big one that tells us all is clear.
I was glad to see Michael on night shift again, he did a great job getting us through the evening yesterday. He is so thorough and seems to endure my endless quizzing with little irritation.
Jamie got some beautiful flowers today from Dick, Kris and Shelby, and Beth brought a wonderful pot of daisy which I can't wait to plant in our garden. Jen gets the award for best gift today for the foil balloon and turtle weight which brightens up the room, yet takes no precious floor or counter space. Thanks Anne for the PJ's. To the Lucero family thanks for the word search book, mag and excellent handmade card (posted on the bulletin board where Jamie can see). Dana Miller sent more word search and puzzle books and blanket, Jamie said you knew to send the puzzle books because she did them on the bus to softball games. Katrina of course is out of control and deserves thanks for another mag, new insulated mug and some great juice for use in a few days.
Joel and I also got to go out for a bit today, we found a quaint little place down on the Montlake Cut where we could talk about our feelings and enjoy a nice warm herbal tea.
Today's treats included Beth's banana bread as well as even more cookies and banana bread from Jen's coworker Rhonda. All these snacks serve well to sustain us day and night as well as reward our excellent nursing staff.
Now a more serious note. It has come to my attention that some of my posts have been altered and what you read my not be precisely my own hand. It seems hard to believe that the "man" is trying to control such a meager and politically neutral news source as this. This is not the Internet Al Gore dreamed of.
(Minor spelling & grammatical changes may have been made to this post. The content of its character has not been altered.)
Recovery Day 2
Thanks Jen for giving me a few hours of solid sleep. I waited for the nurse shift change and went back to my room sometime after midnight, it took me a bit to unwind, but once I got to sleep I didn't stir until late morning.
I hustled to the Hospital to find Jamie in good spirits, I think the transfusion really helped give her a boost. I missed Goff's visit this AM, but caught her in hall long enough to give her a ration of cookies, apparently Katrina's PB recipe was particularly tempting.
Walking is a must today and I hope it will help Jamie get her guts in working order and alleviate some of the pain. She is far more alert, cheery and much more herself this morning, bossing me about and and taking a lot more ice chips. May is our daytime nurse again today hopefully yesterdays efforts will be rewarded with an easy day today, at least with this patient.
Thanks for the puzzle books and blanket Dana, both will get plenty of use in the coming weeks. And of course Katrina has done more than her share already and continues to help by taking our laundry. Dinner was also great last night guys, that was quite the buffet we had in my hotel room.
I hustled to the Hospital to find Jamie in good spirits, I think the transfusion really helped give her a boost. I missed Goff's visit this AM, but caught her in hall long enough to give her a ration of cookies, apparently Katrina's PB recipe was particularly tempting.
Walking is a must today and I hope it will help Jamie get her guts in working order and alleviate some of the pain. She is far more alert, cheery and much more herself this morning, bossing me about and and taking a lot more ice chips. May is our daytime nurse again today hopefully yesterdays efforts will be rewarded with an easy day today, at least with this patient.
Thanks for the puzzle books and blanket Dana, both will get plenty of use in the coming weeks. And of course Katrina has done more than her share already and continues to help by taking our laundry. Dinner was also great last night guys, that was quite the buffet we had in my hotel room.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Recovery Day 1
This AM went well, our able nurse May got Jamie cleaned up a bit and comfortable and even worked her up to sitting up on the edge of the bed.
Things got a little rough later on as Jamie had some major pain. The pain management group came in and quickly started fussing about and after several hours we seem to have things scaled back. Jamie has been dozing much more comfortably, but is still weak and sore.
They are going to do a blood transfusion, although she has been stable since surgery they apparently feel that this will boost her strength.
Shades are drawn, lights are down and we are having a little peace and listening to my "reading time" play list off my iPod.
Jennifer is on her way up to relieve me for a bit while I rendezvous with the Woods for a bite to eat. I don't envy Jen or any of our other family members who traveled on the start of this holiday.
Some beautiful flowers came today from Dave and Nana Thoday and Dave and Barb Mielke, as well as some nice live bulbs from our friends at Vector Engineering. Spruces up the room and takes the edge off that institution stench. Jamie really appreciates everyone's sympathy and the arrival of cards and such always perks her up.
Glad to see all the comments on the blog, when Jamie is having a spike in pain she likes me to read them to her, as it tunes her mind to happier things.
Things got a little rough later on as Jamie had some major pain. The pain management group came in and quickly started fussing about and after several hours we seem to have things scaled back. Jamie has been dozing much more comfortably, but is still weak and sore.
They are going to do a blood transfusion, although she has been stable since surgery they apparently feel that this will boost her strength.
Shades are drawn, lights are down and we are having a little peace and listening to my "reading time" play list off my iPod.
Jennifer is on her way up to relieve me for a bit while I rendezvous with the Woods for a bite to eat. I don't envy Jen or any of our other family members who traveled on the start of this holiday.
Some beautiful flowers came today from Dave and Nana Thoday and Dave and Barb Mielke, as well as some nice live bulbs from our friends at Vector Engineering. Spruces up the room and takes the edge off that institution stench. Jamie really appreciates everyone's sympathy and the arrival of cards and such always perks her up.
Glad to see all the comments on the blog, when Jamie is having a spike in pain she likes me to read them to her, as it tunes her mind to happier things.
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