October 16th, 2008

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Mom’s Turn!!

Thursday, October 16th, 2008

Julie is concerned because she has gotten a little behind on her blog entries. For that reason, at her request, tonight’s note is from her dear old mom. (Somehow I imagine that the eyes of all you readers have begun to “glaze over” when learning this news!) Don’t worry, she’ll be back at her computer soon to dazzle you with her usual fun and informative records!”

Today is day 9 since her transplant and she continues to impress her doctors, nurses and family with her strength and positive attitude. She takes MANY medications throughout the day—some have to be taken with food; some on an empty stomach and some should not be taken anytime close to the ingestion of dairy products. She has difficulty with food due to a horrible metallic taste and a dry mouth from the TBI (total body irradiation). It is difficult to balance the medications with the food—–especially since chocolate milk and macaroni and cheese seem to be two things that are appealing to her. She has informed me that I must be careful not to NAG her about eating.——the nutritionists here say not to nag about eating but be SURE that the patient takes in enough daily protein as it is essential to regaining strength, etc. Get the picture???? I have started to hum my own little tune. Remember The Garden Song? I think John Denver and maybe Peter, Paul and Mary sang it. (Our family liked Tommy Makem’s version (I think you’ll love it!): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmLzr1YSI9Y . We spent many winter nights listening to Tommy Makem at a bar in Maryland (over the course of years…he used to always come in December), and his death was a huge loss. MY words are ‘Inch by inch, row by row, gonna make those stem cells grow—all it takes is a nag whose a pro and a lot of love and prayers.” That is the only verse I have finished. “I’ll get back to you.” with the rest “you betcha”! Just hum along during the day–wherever you are. Maybe it will help Julie!! And it’s the perfect song to match Andrew’s analogy in the comments on a post from October 6 (”Day Minus 2–all systems go!!–I’m totally stealing that from you, Andrew!”).

Laura left today–it was hard to see her leave. You can’t just say, “Bye, Laura. Thanks for all those cells!” Laura and Ben (Tiso) were extremely supportive these past two weeks. What a blessing to have them here with us. Although Laura had a few tough days with nausea and vomiting, she bounced right back and was a real help. (She does still have quite an ugly bruised area on her left arm though!)

Thanks to all of you who read ]ulie’s blog and who support her in so many ways. She isn’t talking on the phone or writing on the computer as much right now but each day will bring new energy so she will be back to her post SOON. We are so very thankful for our family, friends, neighbors and co-workers. All of you give all of us the strength to get through these challenging days.

Love and blessings to you all,

Carol

P.S. Don’t even ask why there are no damned pictures on this blog. This is a senior edition!