Giving Thanks

Mom is still in the hospital - not complaining though. She's getting five star treatment from her nurses, Bridgette and Butch. Her favorite treatment is the nebulizer - she nearly whines when it's over and can't wait for the next time! This is a big boost for the respiratory therapists, who normally have to encourage their patients to receive the treatment.

Tuesday morning the doctors discovered blood clots in her left leg. This happens sometimes during chemo treatments. Mom had some swelling of the leg when I visited last; now we know the cause. The fall during the night and the bump on her head was a blessing; if she hadn't fallen, we may not have known about the clots, which could have caused her serious troubles on top of those she is already braving. So, Mom is on an IV drip of antibiotics for the infection and Heprin for the clots. Lucky for her she has the convenience of the chemo port.

I was in the room with Mom this morning when Dr. Knitter was with her. During the conversation, Dr. Knitter told Mom she had a very healthy attitude about her cancer. Mom replied that her strength comes from her faith in the Lord, and that if she wasn't a Christian she didn't know how she could do it. Mom shares her hope with everyone she meets.

Mom will be in the hospital over Thanksgiving, possibly longer. She needs to stay until the infection is cleared up and the clots are dealt with. So, Thanksgiving plans with the family have been altered a bit, but we have lots to be thankful for. Lots.

The new hearing aids are working well. She can hear us speak in a normal tone. Sometimes she's still a little confused about what we're saying, but now we know it's just a confusion thing and not a hearing thing.

Suzy and I are at the North Central Michigan College library right now, stopping for a book and to check email. I showed Suzy all the visits to this website from Florida. Suzy wants Aunt Jan and Uncle Matt to know how much she appreciates your diligent tracking of Mom's progress. She loves you and would like to talk to you soon. She doesn't get to check her email too often, so if she doesn't respond right away, hang in there.

I love you too.

I'll try to post again over the next couple days.
Happy Thanksgiving!