Fri, 8.8 - Más Mejora

Happy 8.8.08 everybody. I decided since the theme was pretty much the same (More Improvement) that I'd switch up the language while keeping the intent. I'm beginning to wonder how people that don't have a specific topic do this blong thing daily! Onto the update...

Her WBCs are up to 1.9 today, and I can affirmatively say there's a huge difference from last Friday to today. She's more energetic. While I wouldn't put her in the hyperactive category just yet, there were several walks today and we're going outside tomorrow. The nurses and physical therapist said this would be good to have a change-up although it will most definitely not be a lengthy trek in distance or time.

She is still pretty restless while the steroids are ramped down off. The good thing is she recognizes it, and she gets excited when their conclusion is discussed. It just makes it tough for her to sleep and rest in general. They also won't give her ativan until it's completed. There's one other side effect - elevated blood sugar. She's had pretty high measurements that require insulin units to correct.

And thanks to steroids combined with no anxiety medication, we have the restlessness I alluded to last night. That restlessness seems to be the primary driver for some pretty good mood swings. There was noticeable frustration this evening a few times with just the 'what do I do?' thought. I'm sure it has something to do with being in the hospital for 28 days as well, but who's counting.

Ganguly's last day for this working period was today. He returns in 8 days, and said he doesn't expect Mom to be here then. So that would be a little earlier than the 1.5 weeks I outlined earlier - not by much, but earlier. The reason I point that out is she's now counting down 8 days. I told her to not worry about the # of days and just keep managing the task in front of her b/c she could get out even earlier or potentially later. In other words, achieve and pass the milestones as a result of your great health improvements. Don't worry if you don't hit one exactly b/c it's NOT a disappointment. Achieving it is a success regardless.

Now while Mom's memory of ICU is spotty at best, she's pretty damn sharp now. She (thankfully) just remembered this evening that she's a business owner. I'm hoping she doesn't start stressing about it now that she's remembered though! If you want proof she's clear though, here's a story from this evening.

A Lebanese doctor came in who had studied in 4 different countries. Well she's been watching the Opening Ceremonies for the Olympics tonight (remember - long, mindless TV is good). And the doctor asked her how they were. She responded, 'it's outre.' For anyone that doesn't do crosswords, that may be as foreign to you as it was to the doctor. He had no clue what it meant so she found great humor in the fact that she taught this educated, international doctor a new word. Too funny. In case you're wondering, it means 'to go beyond, in excess' in the French language. She said most people would recognize it from crosswords.

One other note regarding the Olympic ceremonies - Mom doesn't like the American hats. I told her Bob Costas said they were designed by Ralph Lauren and she said, 'well lemme have a second look.' She didn't say much until they refocused on our team again. Then quipped, 'there are the Americans in their dumbass hats again!' So I'm going out on a limb here when I say she didn't think they were better the 2nd time... :)

Ok, 2 funny stories. I think that's a good way to close. Good night all, and have a great weekend.