Monday January 16

It's Trish again posting for Cheryl.  Mondays are always a busy day in a hospital and Cheryl's day was no exception!  The pain management doctor came in and readjusted her pain medicine, hoping to maximize pain relief, while still keep Cheryl alert (less tired).  Cheryl seems more alert when she is awake then before, but still taking long naps.  Her blood levels (H & H ~ Hemoglobin and Hematocrit) dropped again as of this mornings labs, so Cheryl needed yet another transfusion.  She is to receive two units of blood, one of which is in already.  Her platelets are still low.  They are watching that level closely.  She is still on oxygen and still short of breath on exertion.  The Palliative Care doctor was in too (her job is to manage symptoms and improve quality of life) and is planning on getting Cheryl more comfortable while she is here.  Many other people came in as well, including the Mind & Body doctor, physical therapy, case management, and the nutritionist.  The oncologist (cancer doctor) was just in and he reiterated again that for now they will try to keep Cheryl comfortable and keep watching her blood levels.  Chemo will only start when her blood levels are up and it is safe (won't cause her more harm).  Until then it is symptom management.  I have read all her comments to her and she is so appreciative of everyone's support!  Her Mom is flying in on Wednesday day (pray for her travels).  I haven't made a flight home yet, but I'm looking at Thursday or Friday depending on cost and times (amazingly my manager asked me if I wanted an extra day off!).

Please continue to pray for her and her family.