Monday, February 4, 2013

Day 1

It certainly doesn't feel like seven months have passed since we've graced 5 West with our presence.  The smells hit Chris and I instantly.  The smells of disinfectant, disease, and courage.  We were greeted with a beautiful, warm welcome as we crossed the threshold to our home for the next 5 days.  The nurses were so happy to see us.  They do want you to return, it means something is working!  We were welcomed by a few adorable baby bumps. It's amazing how drastic lives can change in only a few short months.  We were even more happy to find out our long lost caregivers, Jim and Theresa, signed up to take care of us for the next three days!  It was even sweeter when we were told several nurses wanted to take care of us, but they scooped us up first.  It is such a relief knowing we have such terrific people taking care of us.  They truly are amazing.

Today felt like getting on a bike when you haven't been on one in a year.  I was a little rusty at first, but it's all coming back pretty quickly.  I'm remembering the drug names, the blood pressure cuff instructions, our side effect routine...

Chris got his first dose of IL2 at 2 pm.  He tolerated it pretty well.  Very mild rigors, body aches, and a headache.  Now he is sleeping next to me, feeling as if he has the flu.  Remember the side effects will get more severe with each dose and we won't get every dose in.  Blood work will be taken and we will see if Chris is ready for a dose at 10 pm.  It'll be a long night here on 5 West, but then it will be over, and we will be one day closer to going home.

Thank you for all the thoughts and prayers!

Much love,
Teresa xo

5 comments:

  1. God has blessed you with some gifted people to take care of you both. Please thank them for us. Give Chris a hug and know that we have him and you in our constant prayers. One dose at a time, one day at a time and God's strength all the time.
    God Bless you both.
    Aunt Suzie and Uncle Randy

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  2. Keep up the good work Teresa and Chris!! That's so awesome that you were greeted with friendly, encouraging faces when you went back into the hospital. I'm so glad that you have such a great, big support group for you there. Today is halfway over, then you're on to Wednesday already. I hope Chris is feeling ok and that he can continue to get the doses he needs.

    Love you so much!!
    Amy

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  3. Glad to hear you felt comfortable on your return to treatment. That is so important. You have so much love & support surrounding you. God Bless You Both. My prayers & love are with you, Aunt Janee

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  4. Glad things are going good. that sure is a good sign. Love you both... Granny and Poppa

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