Home again!

Hello friends and family~

I have been anxious to give you an update on my mom's health, and can finally do so! My mom is happily home again after her recent hospitalization. She completed her blood transfusion, yet her blood counts are still not within a normal range. Her white blood cells and platelets are critically low, so she must remain at home to avoid being exposed to any germs. She is having her blood drawn every other day, to keep a close eye on these numbers. We are holding out hope they will "recover", so she can undergo the next round of chemotherapy. For each round of chemo she can tolerate and complete, her life span is increased. As you can imagine, she wants as much quality time to live her life, as she can possibley have. As the doctor's have clearly stated, chemo "buys" her more time. As unpleasant as it is, chemotherapy is the "price" she pays to live a longer life. She is willing to pay it, if only her body will cooperate with her plans, and rebuild blood cells.


The 6 weeks of daily chemo has taken it's toll. The effects are cumulative, so although she felt wonderful a few weeks ago, the side effects are showing now. In addition to the chemo affecting her blood levels, now a new concern has arised. The steroids she was on to reduce brain swelling, have caused a bleeding ulcer. This creates a new problem, as the ulcer can't heal properly with the low platelets. Her heart rate also dropped dangerously low in the hospital, and her labored breathing is a sign that her heart condition may be causing a problem. Again, no procedures can be done with her platelets so low.

Through-out all this "gloom and doom talk" as my mom calls it, she remains upbeat, positive, and optimistic. My mom is truly an amazing woman. Despite poor hospital care, ( unread tests, a doctor who didn't answer his work , home , cell phone, or page to instruct the hospital, no bath for 4 days...the list goes on unfortunately) my mom remains hopeful. She doesn't complain, whine, or feel sorry for herself. A weaker person, (ME!) would certainly have trouble handling this situation with as much grace and dignity as my mom. As so many people have told her, she has truly inspired us by her actions in how to live, and how to deal with life's most difficult challenges. I am so blessed to call her, "MOM."

We discussed her many options in every scenario, but her wishes are to remain in California, in her home. So, we have arranged for live in 24 hour help. Her "caregiver" is incredibley compassionate, skilled, and loving. She is just the person my mom deserves, and will keep me updated on her daily progress. I in turn, will keep you up to date as well.

Thank you for your continued prayers for my mom. They bring her such strength, and we so greatly appreciate this kindness! If you write a blog comment to her, we will be sure she gets it, as it is becoming more difficult for her to manage e-mail. I know your letters, notes, e-mails and blog comments have been so encouraging to my mom! As always, your friendship is the best "medicine" of all!